How may Guinea Pigs should you get?Like Humans, Guinea Pigs are social animals and therefore it is recommended that you buy Guinea Pigs in pairs.
In this topic, we will discuss whether you have the time and dedication to have just one, or more than two. Two Guinea pigs is the best option, as they can prevent each other from boredom, and can live together and therefore you will not have to dedicate practically all of your time to entertaining your Guinea Pig The best pet shops will only sell you Guinea Pigs in pairs. |
Two, or more?If you are getting Guinea Pigs, it is vitally important that you get more than one. This is so they can socialise, create a loving relationship between them, and have a friend to live with so they will not get bored.
Even so, some people choose to get more than two Guinea Pigs. Not only will this inccur more costs, time and a bigger hutch, but this could create some problems, which we will discuss here. |
Problems with large packsWhen there are more than two Guinea Pigs living together, they can sometimes begin to fight for dominance, over food, and who is friendly with who. Like humans, Guinea Pigs always will have their 'best of the best' friends, whom they will prefer to spend more of their time with.
This could create some issues, and some of the Guineas could feel left out (I know this sounds ridiculous, but they really are very sociable animals) If you are prepared to dedicate an equal amount of time to each Guinea Pig (if any Guinea less time dedicated to him/her than the rest, he/she could get jealous) then you could get more than two. |
Importance of two or moreGuinea Pigs naturally require attention to keep them happy. If you don't get more than one Guinea, they can get lonely, their health will suffer and they will feel withdrawn from their own kind, even if you yourself entertain them.
It is really important that you get two or more Guinea Pigs because they have a partner or playmate to keep them entertained, they should always be happy and never lonely. You should get two Guineas that have been together since birth, as Guineas that don't recognise the other will fight. You can overcome this by following some of our guides on this site. |