Guinea pig popcorning when I try caressing him?

Question

Sometimes, when I try to carress him in his cage, my guinea pig either squeak or popcorns under my hand and sometimes tries to nibble on my finger.

I know popcorning is a happy behaviour when they're left alone, but is it the same when you caress them? Or does it mean "leave me alone!" (mostly since he seems trying to nibble on my finger)?

Answer 1

Guinea pigs do not usually enjoy being pet inside their cage. Hold him outside of his cage on your lap instead, he would much rather enjoy that! He's telling you right now to leave him alone, because they are prey animals and very nervous about being taken out of their cage.

Answer 2

I'm not sure what popcorning is - never heard of this term but I dont think many animals like being handled in thier home and they get territorial. Used a soft gentle voice so they know you dont mean harm but I would also try and hanle him more out of thecage so he's used to it. My rabbit is quite similar!

Answer 3

The first poster is right. Don't mess with him in his cage.

Let him out and run around so he will calm down, then lure him to you with a piece of cilantro or apple or whatever he likes best, then pet him while he eats.

Answer 4

It is normal for a guinea pig to do this. Guinea Pigs popcorn when they are happy or excited. Same thing with the squealing. My guinea pig loves lettuce and whenever she hears the fridge door open she speaks and popcorns. The nibbling is normal too.