What does it mean when guinea pigs sway their hips?

Mating Posture

A female guinea pig who's in the mood for some mating will sway her hips from side to side as she either purrs or chatters her teeth together. She'll combine the hip-swaying movement with a circling motion as well.

What does it mean when male guinea pigs sway their hips?

Rumble. A deep vibrating sound that can be accompanied by swaying of the hips (strutting). A dominance behaviour that is natural, males will especially display this towards their favourite lady-pig!

Why do guinea pigs move side to side?

Strutting: Moving side to side on stiff legs can be a sign of aggression, often accompanied by teeth chattering. Strutting around another guinea pig while rumbling is a typical mating dance and the origin of the term "rumble strutting."

Why is my male guinea pig swaying?

Well, guinea pig rumble strutting is known to be a mating dance but can also be seen as an act of dominance. And it doesn't just happen between a male and female, but can happen with any paired piggie! Another body language to recognize is the raising of a piggie's head and front legs and fluffing up their fur.

How do you know if your guinea pig hates you?

Guinea Pig Sounds and What They Mean

Why is my guinea pig moving back and forth?

A guinea pig that sits and appears to be obviously 'rocking' back and forth while breathing can be showing early signs of a respiratory illness and needs a vet inspection asap.

Why does my guinea pig vibrate when I pet him?

Good vibrations

When petting your guinea pig, you may notice it start to vibrate. Much like when cats purr, these vibrations show that they are at ease and are in a good mood. This response is more commonly seen in younger guinea pigs, a characteristic that they grow out of as they get older.

Do guinea pigs cry?

So, although we wouldn't consider guinea pigs to cry 'emotional tears', like all mammals their eyes do produce physical tears. This is to keep their eye moist and clean.

Why does my guinea pig flatten out when I pet her?

Guinea pigs lay flat because they feel safe and comfortable enough with you and their surroundings, and they just want to lay still and relax for a while. Most of the time there's no problem with a guinea pig lying down flat because it just shows that it's peaceful enough for them to be able to relax out in the open.

Why is my guinea pig laying on her side and twitching?

Typically, a guinea pig laying on its side is a sign of a happy, relaxed guinea pig. However, if lying on his side is accompanied by twitching, shortness of breath, or other signs of illness, your guinea pig is ill and should be taken to a vet. Guinea pigs also lie on their sides if they're shocked or scared.

How do guinea pigs show affection?

Most guinea pigs don't like to get wet. A guinea pig might also lick their person's fingers/hand, which can be a sign of affection — after all, that's how guinea pigs show affection to one another. Or the guinea pig might just like the taste of a person's skin.

Why does my guinea pig stare at me?

Guinea pigs often stare at people because they want attention. Perhaps piggies need to be cuddled, pet, or you should bring them a toy. They behave this way if they're used to being around humans and have bonded with their owners.

How do I know if my guinea pigs are trying to mate?

Mating Calls

A rumble sounds like a low-pitched purr and is often called motor-boarding for a good reason. A male guinea pig interested in mating with an accessible female usually begins his rumbling while pacing the cage, wiggling his hips from side to side. This is done to attract his potential mate.

How do I know if my guinea pig is happy?

A happy guinea pig

A good appetite and enthusiasm for food. Plenty of activity (not at all lethargic) “Popcorning” (when a guinea pig leaps into the air with happiness) Lots of communication in the form of their various vocalizations, including “wheeking” and other squeaks, whistles, and purring sounds.

What do guinea pigs love the most?

Do guinea pigs miss their owners?

Yes, of course they will miss you and their normal routine. Our first family piggy back in the 70ies did a big dance of joy every time he came back home after a holiday. Now my piggies always visibly of relax when I come back from a family visit to another country.

Do guinea pigs know when you're sad?

Guinea pigs do know when you're sad and they usually can tell when you're feeling that way by how you're acting and sometimes even by the tone of your voice. They may even act differently if they notice that you're feeling down and sometimes they might try to comfort you as well.

How often should you pick up your guinea pig?

Most guinea pigs love spending quality time with their owners, so handling them is enjoyable for all concerned. Once your guinea pig gets to know you, being hand-fed and petted become important parts of their lives. This means it's actually up to you how much you hold them - you can do so as often as you like.

Where does a guinea pig like to be petted?

Start by petting the head or under the chin. The feet and underside are usually areas to avoid, and the back might even be an area to avoid. Observe your guinea pig's body language and listen to vocalizations for clues about how he or she feels.

Why does my guinea pig squeak when I hold it?

Some guinea pigs will squeal when they are experiencing potential pain or they need attention. It can sometimes be that another guinea pig is stealing his favorite spot to eat. Pay attention to your guinea pig if you hear a squeal because it could indicate that they need help from something hurting them.

How do I know if my guinea pig is in pain?

What does a stressed guinea pig sound like?

A shorter sounding, apprehensive purr may mean fear. Alternately, fear can be signaled by a high-pitched squeak or shriek. Hissing: This sound may also sound like chattering teeth and is a sign that your pet guinea pig is angry or aggressive.