Is a boy or girl guinea pig better?

What makes the best pet – male or female guinea pigs? Male guinea pigs (boars) have a tendency to live a little longer than females (sows), especially if the females are having young. Both have similar temperaments although males often have a bolder personality, making them easier to handle.

What gender are guinea pigs more affectionate?

Many people choose the male guinea pig because it quickly bonds with its owners. It's often more outgoing, confident, and friendly. The male is more likely to let you carry it around or sit on your lap, but it is also likely to run off exploring when it gets the chance.

Why are female guinea pigs better?

While sows may “bicker” a little more to reinforce their social standing with one another, guinea pig pet parents have relayed that female guinea pigs tend to have fewer fallouts that require separation.

Are male guinea pigs aggressive?

Guinea Pigs are social animals and are usually happy living with other cavies, however, bust ups do happen. It's not recommended to house two male pigs and a female together as this can cause the males to become aggressive.

Do girl guinea pigs have periods?

Female guinea pigs have estrous cycles in which they go into heat several times a year for several days, with different stages. However, they don't experience bleeding or periods as in a menstrual cycle. While they are in heat, they are fertile and go through spontaneous ovulation.

Choosing Your New Guinea Pigs: Males or Females?

Is 2 or 3 guinea pigs better?

The minimum size for a group of guinea pigs is two. However, there are good reasons why should consider acquiring three or more at the same time and keeping them together: Several guinea pigs will stimulate each other and encourage active behaviour.

Can I potty train my guinea pig?

Guinea pigs can be trained to go to the bathroom in a litter box. Some get the hang of it quickly, while some never learn. That's just how it is. Just remember that it's not your guinea pig's fault if they poop outside the litter box - sometimes they can have accidents or simply forget.

How many guinea pigs should I get?

(Keep in mind that guinea pigs are highly social, so it is best to have at least two guinea pigs who get along with each other.)

Do guinea pigs need to be in pairs?

Guinea pigs are very sociable creatures and need to live in pairs or small groups, as they would in the wild. We recommend always having two or more guinea pigs together, with safe introductions to keep them happy. Our guinea pigs need other guinea pigs.

Do female guinea pigs smell?

In a nutshell, guinea pigs shouldn't smell. If they are giving off an unpleasant odour, it's usually a sign that the cage isn't clean, their diet is wrong, they're sick, or they're struggling to groom themselves. Also, boars may smell more than sows because of an oily buildup around the grease gland.

Do boy guinea pigs spray?

We recommend spaying and neutering pet guinea pigs. Female guinea pigs have a very high incidence of uterine disease/cancer and spaying will prevent these problems. Intact male guinea pigs can exhibit unwelcome reproductive behaviors, such as mounting and urine spraying.

Can 2 female guinea pigs live together?

In the wild guinea pigs live in groups of 10 or more. They are social creatures, and need the company of their own kind. As pets they are usually kept in pairs or trios of the same sex. Two females (sows) will live happily together, as will two males (boars), particularly if they are siblings.

What you need before getting a guinea pig?

How long do guinea pigs live for?

Guinea pigs live an average of five to seven years. This lifespan is longer than many other small pets such as hamsters, gerbils, mice or rats, all of whom only live up to a few years.

Is it OK to have guinea pigs in your bedroom?

It is critically important to the long-term health and happiness of your guinea pig that you place its cage central to family activity or at the immediate periphery. Do not put cages in children's bedrooms. The guinea pig should be part of family life, even if it is designated as one person's pet.

Do guinea pigs need shots?

While guinea pigs do not require any vaccinations, it is recommended that you take your pet to a veterinarian familiar with guinea pigs at least once each year for a routine checkup.

How expensive is a guinea pig?

Guinea pigs usually cost between $10 and $40, and you will need at least two. There are lots of guinea pigs without a home in pet shelters, so source your pets there if possible.

Do guinea pigs like to cuddle?

A healthy guinea pig is a happy guinea pig, and a happy guinea pig loves cuddles. So regularly grooming your guinea pig is an excellent way to keep an eye on its health, and of course, it helps build that all-important bond.

Can guinea pigs roam free in house?

Considerations. While you can let your guinea pig roam free in your home and backyard, doing so exposes him to dangers he won't find in his cage. Guineas may nibble baseboards, furniture, upholstery or electrical cords in your home; the strong-smelling urine of the male may leave unpleasant smells in porous surfaces.

Should I get a rabbit or a guinea pig?

Rabbits have more personality and make better companion pets. They also have more complex needs, so guinea pigs are less of a responsibility than rabbits. If you have time and can adhere to a schedule, rabbits are excellent company. Guinea pigs are less demanding family pets.

Is it OK to have one guinea pig?

Guinea pigs are social animals that naturally live in groups. While it's best to have more than one guinea pig in your home at a time, this is not always possible. Make sure you know how to keep you guinea healthy, happy, and secure in his environment even without a cage mate.

Are hamsters or guinea pigs better pets?

Guinea Pigs Vs Hamsters — the Verdict? Overall experts suggest that guinea pigs make the best pets for children due to their affectionate and active nature. They also live longer which means the there is more time for your child to bond with their pet.