Why is my male guinea pig swaying?

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!

What does it mean when a guinea pig sways?

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.

Why is my guinea pig purring and swaying?

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.

Why does my guinea pig seem off balance?

If your guinea pig has an ear infection -- and especially once it progresses inward -- she may also partially or completely lose her hearing. Once the infection reaches the inner ear, symptoms associated with its effects on the nervous system, such as circling, loss of balance and rolling around, also often appear.

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.

Guinea Pig Dominance Behaviours and What They Mean!

What are the signs of a guinea pig dying?

A sick and dying Guinea pig will have a very poor coat, which can look dull, show thinning, or appear to be rough. They may also have patches of hair loss and you may see inflamed areas of skin. You should also keep your eyes out for signs of parasites, such as ringworm, lice, and mites.

How do guinea pigs act when they are dying?

Guinea pigs are a prey species, which means they try to hide when they feel unwell or sick. A dying guinea pig is likely to hide away, not eat or drink, and not pass pellets.

Why is my guinea pig falling on his side?

If your guinea pig cries out, falls to one side, and starts twitching, it is most likely infected with a skin parasite known as guinea pig mange (Trixacarus caviae). The seizure-like behavior is due to the intense itching sensation caused by the mites burrowing through the skin.

Why is my guinea pig head bobbing?

This is a sign of an excited, happy guinea pig that is in the mood to play. Chin raising or head bobbing is often done when your guinea pig is annoyed or to display dominance. If this behavior is done when you are petting your guinea pig, they are letting you know that they would prefer to be left alone.

Why is my guinea pig tilting his head to one side?

In guinea pigs, a severe head tilt can be from an ear infection spreading to the middle ear and inner ear. This type of infection causes the head tilt (torticollis), which is often called “wry neck” in rabbits. It also causes the loss of equilibrium and nausea.

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.

What is Rumblestrutting?

One is often accompanied by “rumble strutting,” which is a behavior guinea pigs do to display dominance. The guinea pig shifts their weight side-to-side while walking, and sometimes their fur may be a little puffed up to make themselves look larger.

Why is my guinea pig hopping?

When content and running around you may occasionally see your guinea pig jump, twist and jerk, making a grumbling purring noise as they go. This is usually as a display of happiness and if witnessed in a healthy guinea pig, exploring or playing in their environment, then it should be enjoyed as a sign they are happy.

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 recognize their owners?

True. Guinea pigs generally enjoy the company of their fellow cavies. Although it is not a good idea to house too many of them in one cage, most guinea pigs appreciate having a companion. They definitely recognize and respond to their owners and are very interactive.

Why does my guinea pig throw his head back when I pet him?

Tossing Head in the Air: A guinea pig getting annoyed with being petted will toss its head back as a way of asking you to stop. Licking: Most owners consider this a sign of guinea pig affection, though it is possible that they just like the taste of the salt on your skin.

What does a guinea pig seizure look like?

Signs that this may have happened will include a messed-up bed, they appear confused, they may break a claw or bite their lip/tongue when seizing so there could be evidence of blood or the guinea pig may not appear themselves. If in any doubt, then call your vet straight away.

What is the most common cause of death in guinea pigs?

Pneumonia. Pneumonia is actually the leading cause of death in Guinea pigs. It is generally caused by a bacterial infection. Some of the symptoms of pneumonia include wheezing, trouble breathing, discharge from the nose or mouth, weight loss, reddish eyes, and depression.

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.

What's the average lifespan of a guinea pig?

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.

What does guinea pig squeaking mean?

Squeal: 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.

Do guinea pigs get Zoomies?

Zoomies is something energetic guinea pigs get from time to time, and they'll usually just run in circles around their cage. This is very common with young guinea pigs, but adult guinea pigs get zoomies too.

How do you cheer up a guinea pig?

Socializing with your guinea pig is one way to keep them happy and healthy. Talk to your guinea pig, cuddle them, carry them in your hands, and pet their fur as often as you can. Show your guinea pig that you love them!