Getting another piggy? Please help :)

[curly_whirly_tipz]

Hi,

I have just adopted a little piggy called Percy (12-16wks) from the pet shop. Apparently he and the boar he was sharing his cage with had been separated due to fighting. However I am worried he will be lonley. I am not sure if he was just as territorial as the other male or if one was more dominant than the other but I was wondering is it a good idea to get another piggy and place them in another cage opposite so he can socialise? I am however worried this might upset him as he might prefer his own space :S Please help!

 

[herriotfan]

I suggest you ring some rescues in your area to see if they do guinea pig dating. That way your little one can find a friend under the supervision of experienced guinea pig people. They will be of great help and can answer any questions you have too.

 

[Member W]

we just tried 'boar dating at our local rescue, and found the piggy that our boy would get on best with. you should try that, or maybe try get him neutered at a really good cavy vet and get him a girlfriend? x

 

[Wiebke]

Hi! The best way to bond your little boar (or any single piggy) is to date him at a reputable guinea pig rescue, so he can decide himself who he gets on best with and you only come him with another piggy if things work out. Many boars fall out because they don't have enough space and are chosen for looks and not character compatibility. Shops and breeders don't have the time and experience to properly bond piggies. A good rescue will also support you with advice afterwards throughout the whole life of their piggies.

You may find our "boar guide" interesting: http://www.theguineapigforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=76162

Whereabouts are you?

 

[curly_whirly_tipz]

Thank you for your replies. I am in Norfolk.

I did think about getting him neutered but I didnt want to unnecessarily put him through an operation if it isnt needed. However I am worried he will be lonley, especially if he is 12-16wks and has been around other guinea pigs (just not in same cage in pet shop). If I was to get another guinea pig and place them in a separate cage, if they were a female would that make Percy quite frustrated as he would want to mate, or would be ok if he couldnt reach her?