Introducing 2 pairs of bonded males?

[chriscundy]

Hi,

We have taken into care 2 bonded males housed on their own and were wondering what the likelyhood of them getting on with our other pair of bonded males if they were to be introduced in a mutual environment?

Thanks

 

[Suzygpr]

The chances of it working out are very very low. The chances of the bond between the existing pairs being broken and ending up with boys that will not tolerate each other any longer is much higher. I would not allow the boys to mix or have cages where they can see/smell the other pair. The dominance behaviour due to having their territory 'invaded' can cause fall outs.

Suzy

 

[willow]

Have to agree with the very experienced Suzy.
I have 2 pairs of guineas that live indoors, and have to keep them as far away from each other as possible.
When one pair start squeaking, it winds up the other pair every time.
In the summer, I tried making one big run with a wire divide, but the younger pair just spent the whole time trying to bite through the wire to get to the others.
They now have completely separate runs.

 

[Claire W]

I too agree with Suzy. If I were you, I would just enjoy having two pairs

 

[MerryPip]

I think Suzy has pretty much covered it. I have two bonded pairs of males who used to socialise together as mini pigs but now they are into their teenage years they won't otlerate each other. They will have major dominance issues if I try. My boys are ok side by side as when one set are out for floor time they can talk through the bars to the others but the more I read , the more my boys are pretty unusual in being so sociable.

Best just sticking with two happy pairs. Unfortunately if you want groups then it's gotta be girls!