SOS!
S.O.S
Help! what do I do when my Piggy...
Starts Gaining Weight!
The SOS-My Guinea Pig has been gaining weight by the weeks!
Possible answer- Ask yourself these questions: Is my cage too small? Is my Piggy getting enough exercise? Are they getting too much food? See your vet if none of these questions lead you to the answer!
Is Lost!
The SOS- My Guinea Pig has escaped from his cage/playpen!
A Possible answer- Try taking a tape of the herds "Chattering" every couple of minutes and this will make him feel safer, possibly drawing them near. If you have only one Guinea Pig, you might want to have a search party for the little guy! Look in dark corners, because Piggies love to hide there. Search under everything, and spread out.
Has over grown nails!
The SOS- My Guinea Pig has over grown nails that are effecting their walking!
A Possible answer- Let your Piggy run around on any hard surface like tile, or paving stones for 15 minutes every day. Go to your local vet and let them show you how to trim their nails.
Is fighting!
The SOS- My male Guinea Pigs have been getting along very nicely over the past few years, but recently they have been fighting a lot.
A Possible answer- Usually the only option is to fix one of the males. If
this does not help, try fixing them both. If this does not work, consult your vet.
Is still scared of me!
The SOS- Its been awhile now, and my Piggy still isn't warming up to me! Can you help me?
A Possible answer- If you have 2+ Guinea Pigs, try spending one-on-one time with the shy Piggy! Play soft, soothing music while stroking your Piggy gently for a while. Then, Let her run around in an enclosed area and this will get her used to you. Be patient! :) Another way which I think is EXTREMELY helpful, are these steps for a tamer Guinea Pig:
Step1
Know that it is easiest to tame a very young guinea pig. When selecting your guinea pig, try to find one that is young and healthy. Older animals sometimes have already developed a fear or aversion to people from spending too long at the pet store or breeder.Step2
Give your guinea pig time to get used to you. Instead of grabbing her to pick her up, just lay your open hand down next to her in the cage. Let her sniff your hand and get to know your scent. Speak to her softly and let her get familiar with your voice. You can begin to put tasty treats in your hand to entice your guinea pig, such as fresh vegetables or alfalfa.Step3
Try to stroke him gently when your guinea pig seems comfortable with your hand in the cage. As he gets used to your touch, he will grow to like it and probably begin to purr every time you pet him. Give him treats during your visit so he will associate you with a pleasant experience.Step4
Continue to spend time with your hand in the cage, face up. Guinea pigs are curious and once she is comfortable with you, she may climb right into your hand. Stroke him gently and let her feel safe in your hand before you try to pick her up. Eventually you can lift her in your hand, protecting her from falling with your other hand.Step5
Know that the kindest and safest way to pick up your guinea pig is to get him to walk into your hand. While most guinea pigs will do this, there are a few who don't. You can pick up a guinea pig when he is calm, by closing your hand around his middle and lifting him up. Quickly get your other hand underneath him to support his weight and give him a feeling of security.Step6
Once you can hold your guinea pig without frightening her, you are well on your way to having a tame friend. Guinea pigs are afraid of heights, so keep her close to your body with all her feet supported. While you cuddle and stroke her, you can keep giving her nibbles of her favorite foods. Try to find time every day to just hold and snuggle your guinea pig. Before long she will look forward to your time together as much as you do.
Webs Poll
