my piggy seems bored

Question
Hello, I have a female guinea pig who always bights on the bars of her cage.  It seems like she seems to be bored.  Is there anyhting I can do?  Maybe are there any special toys?

-Jenny

Answer
Hi Jenny -

Biting the bars of the cage is normal behavior for a guinea pig.  Bar biting is sometimes a way to beg for treats too.  Be careful that you don't always give in or your guinea pig will get too many treats and not enough of the nutrients from her food, because she will not eat as much of her food.  

You can try giving her some of the wooden chews made for guinea pigs and rabbits but it probably won't help. If you think she wants your attention, see if you can spend a little more time playing with her everyday.  Guinea pigs needs companionship, so if you are short on time you could also try getting her a guinea pig friend.  Just make absolutely sure it's another female - don't take the word of the pet store - check to see if you can very, very gently push on the area just in front of the vent (private parts) and if a penis protrudes it's a boy!  Never ever push hard as you can permanently injure a guinea pig.

Good luck!

Annie