can't get near my guinea pigs

[Becca91]

I've had my two guineas since February now, they were approx 8 weeks old when I got them. At first, I picked them up and handled them a bit... but they hated it! So I thought if I left them they would decide they liked me in their own time... for about a week or more now I have been sitting with them talking, trying to stroke them... But I just can't get anywhere near them!

When they hear the fridge opening or rustling of bags they think/know food is coming so they squeek, run about and climb up the bars... they take food out of my hand but if I try and touch them they are gone at the speed of light... so it's just cupboard love!

Their nails are getting quite long and I will need to take them to the vets pretty soon to have them trimmed but unless I can tame them a bit, it's gunna be a pretty bad experience for them...

Has anyone got any advice?

 

[Wiebke]

The next step is to train them to come into a pick up convenience, like a tunnel (fleece or firm), a cosy, an upturned house or cardboard box etc. Most piggies don't like being picked up but that works around it. let them get comfy with their "shuttle" first and always place a tiny bit of their favourite veg in.

Handling, cuddling, grooming and vet trips are experiences that you need to teach them, so don't be disheartened at first. It is a matter of getting used to them. the more you turn it into a regular ritual with lots of praise and a little treat at the end, the better. I have one cheeky piggy that has no problem climbing into my lap for a treat, but try to pet her or pick her up and you might as well handle mercury with bare hands!

You have made great progress as your piggies are comfy with your presence. Cupboard love is what you start out with, the rest comes slowly, unnoticeably over time!

 

[Becca91]

Thankyou Wiebke, will give that a go They can be such cheeky monkeys can't they