Buying another mail cavy

Question
Hi,  My daughter's guniea pig just died 2 days ago and I just today went to my local PetsMart today to purchase another one from the same breeder.  I think that this cavy had a heart attack, although I really have no idea.  I simply spoiled it and did all the right things, so I am puzzled. I purchased another American (solid black male) and I was wondering if I could purchase his brother a solid chocolate from the same litter?  They were being housed together for about a week in my local PetsMart and I am assuming they lived together at the breeder's home.  They are about 2-3 months old, would be be harmful OR could it be harmful to purchase the other male tomorrow and have them grow up together?  I would hate for them to fight and hurt each other.  Thank you!!  Hether

Answer
Hether -

I don't believe it is harmful to house two males together.  If I were you, though, I would expect them to fight when initially introduced.  I wouldn't worry about it unless it is severe (i.e. bleeding) or lasts more than 1-2 days.  To minimize it, I would clean the cage VERY well and then introduce them both into it at the same time.  This way, neither one will have an established scent.

Hope this is helpful.  If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact me.  Good luck!

Lorena