Getting Another

Question
Hello. I have an 8 month old guinea pig that I've had for 5 months & she's pretty lonely & I don't always get to see her everyday. (She's outside.) I have been thinking about getting her another guinea pig, defenitely a female also--my parents don't like the ideas of little ones! So anyways, how should I introduce the 2 guinea pigs? What age guinea pig should I get--would a 3 month old one be okay? I'm not very used to holding guinea pigs especially since the way the cage is built makes it hard to grab my guinea pig. (It opens from the side instead of the top--my dad built it.) What should I do? I know what it's like 2 have 2 guinea pigs. Please respond as soon as possible.
    Thanks, Arielle -12


Answer
Arielle --

Here's how you should introduce your new guinea pig.  First, you want to take the old animal out of the cage and clean it throroughly (with a non-irritating soap) to remove the scent of the current animal.  Then, you can simply put them both into the cage at the same time.  Guinea pigs remember by scent, so they will both think it is a new environment.  I would expect a little fighting over the first 24-48 hours, but this is normal.  

Three months old is fine.

I actually prefer side-opening cages.  I think they are easier to reach into than top-openers.  Remember, the point is not to "grab" your guinea pig.  They think you are a predator, so you want to be as non-threatening as possible.  Just stick your hand in, wait for them to settle down, and then slowly move your hand toward them.  Eventually they will realize you are not a threat and they will stop running from you, but it may take a while.

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

Lorena