Did you know that in Switzerland it is illegal to keep just one guinea pig?
Guinea pigs are social animals and need the company of their own kind. In nature, a guinea pig will never live alone—they always live in groups.
For this reason, you should always choose at least two.
– Companionship YES, but of the same species. Do not house a guinea pig with a rabbit, chinchilla, etc. Each animal has its own needs, its own diet, and “speaks” its own language. No other animal can replace the companionship of the same species.
– Pairing males is the most challenging. Brothers who have been together since a young age get along best, or a combination of an adult male and a young one.
– The ideal group consists of several females with one neutered male, as such a group can live together harmoniously long-term.
– Never keep multiple males with only one female, as they will fight!
– Of course, a group consisting only of females can also be maintained.
– In some cases, it is possible to keep multiple males with multiple females. However, not all males are sufficiently socialized, and such groupings require more knowledge and careful supervision.
– When forming a larger group, pay attention to their age. Young guinea pigs should have contact with adults at least until the end of the 10th week of age. This helps them learn social behavior and makes them feel safer and more secure among older guinea pigs.
