new piggies... please help

Question
OK, I have had quite a few guinea pigs in the past, but many years ago. Well I bought a female GP 2 weaks ago, and she has been pretty blah since I have had her. At first I thought maybe she was sick... because every so often she makes this noise. Don't know if it is a sneeze or a cough - sounds like neither. Kind of sounds like a cat with a hairball. But its only every now and then. And I remember my other GP's would get very excited when I'd give them floor time to run around. She just finds a corner and hides! She's eating and drinking fine... but just doesn't do much of anything. So I though maybe she needed a companion. So I bought another only a few days ago. Well they don't fight, but they don't seem to be bonding. This newer one is a baby, and she was bought at a few months old. I don't know what to do... I don't know if something could be wrong, or if she is just antisocial... or not liking me. I was starting to wonder if I am just remembering the personality wrong, being that I owned 2 lively chinchillas in between the large gap of last time I owned GP's to this time. Am I confused? And what about the sound... it happens maybe once every day and maybe not even... could be 5 times a week that I maybe hear her do that. But it is like nothing I ever remember hearing before. Could be a cough and just sounds weird to me... I don't know. Sorry this is so long... but what do you think? I bought them both at pet store, by the way. I would really appreciate your help! Thank you so much!

Answer
Hello Melissa and thanks for the question,

I am sorry that the response has taken me some time to get to. Summer is a busy time for me.

First off, it sounds as though your GP is sick. I would quarentine her from the other, younger, GP right now. Take her to the vet as what you are describing (lethargy, rawls and coughs) sounds like a respiratory issue. Only a vet can prescribe antibiotics and get you GP back to health.

I would also recommend a complete checkup as she is of "questionable" health. A once over (ears, nose, throat, teeth, coat, nails) is always a good idea with a new (sick) GP.

Good luck to you and I hope this helps you out,
Ryan
PS: Some GPs are antisocial by nature. She may come around to you and her new companion or she may not. Love her just the same and give her time.