I bought a guinea pig, and its a bit older....?

Question

i bought a guinea pig, and its a bit older than i first thought,maybe about 2 months or so.The thing is that is really scared.It's always hiding 2 spite me being up till 2 in the morning.How do i get him to like me.I left him in his cage for about 3 days to get used to his new home,but he still seems scared to eat.he doesn't even take treats from me?Please help,he is my new room mate and i really want him to like me?

Answer 1

Guinea pigs are very lovable pets, but they do take a bit of time to get used to you.

If you bought from a pet store, the little thing has been taken from a horrible breeding environment and shipped to a pet store, only to be thrown in a tank with other unrelated, but equally scared, piggies. This scenario does not lend itself to creating a personality of trust.

It is up to you to help your new friend understand that you mean him no harm and don't want to eat him for a snack. This takes TIME. I don't mean a week. I mean several months!

Always approach your piggie speaking softly so he's not started. When reaching for him, reach s-l-o-w-l-y with your palm facing up. He may continue to run for awhile, but eventually, he'll let you touch him. Never chase him around with your hand--this causes him to be afraid of your hand. If you make a habit of having a sprig of parsley, a piece of Romaine lettuce, or a baby carrot in your hand when you want to take him out, this will facilitate the process. He will begin to associate seeing you with something good---food! He will then look forward to seeing you coming!

You may also want to consider getting him a same s*x buddy. Guinea pigs are herd animals and should always be housed in PAIRS.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Guinea pigs are really skittish creatures and take a little time to get used to people. My guinea pig was about 2 months old when I got her too. When I look at her baby pictures, I see a nervous pig that seems extremely confused. Now she's very sweet and loves to l**k my face and arms.

Be patient. Talk to him soothingly, holding out a carrot or a bit of romaine lettuce. Eventually his stomach will take hold and he'll come forth to nibble on it. He'll try to pull it away but hold it firmly, then he will be content to chew right in front of you. After you do this a couple of times and he's very comfortable around you, very slowly and carefully you may try to pet him. Most likely he will retreat, but remember to keep the treats on hand and soon he'll be very friendly.