New Guinea Pig

Question
I am looking to introduce a new guinea pig to the one I already.  When I quarentine the new one should the new one be placed in a different room or can she be placed in a seperate cage next to the one I already have?  Thanks for your time.

Answer
When you get two guinea pigs you need to separate them first in two different cages. They can be next to one another and that is preferred because this gives them time to talk and smell one another before they will live together. Introduce them in a neutral area that is neither belonging to the guinea pigs. I suggest living room area. Give them some time to smell one another and chase each other. It is recommend to give them at least 2-3 weeks. This gives them time to adjust and for quarantine purposes so there is less chance of passing something from one to the other. Daily give them time together in their neutral spot.

What is normal:
Squeaking
Chattering teeth
Chasing

Signs to stop
biting where blood is present
obvious fighting like cats
presence of sores or blood

Be prepared for someone to be more dominant and that there will be loud noises and chattering of teeth. There should not at any time be blood drawn that this the sign it isnt working out and they need more time or just dont like one another.

Here are some great sites to help

http://www.cavyspirit.com/sociallife.htm#Neuter
http://www.guineapigcages.com/