Is it normal for guinea pigs to behave like this?

Question

I had two guinea pigs a while ago, and they were always terrified of everything. they would scream, and run, and p**p, and scratch. you could always see the whites of their eyes, and they would get as far away from you as possible. i am concerned about this because ive heard from a lot of people that guinea pigs are great, including my exotic vet. are they great? were my guinea pigs abnormal? Compare guinea pigs to rats on cleanliness, sociability, and affection please

Answer 1

Yes, they are prey animals. If you keep holding them and offering food, they get used to you. Rats are more social and will run up to you. Guinea pigs typically won't unless you have food.

http://www.guinealynx.info

Answer 2

normally yes they are like that when young. just you got to talk to it more sweet like, try giving it food from your hand, don't chase it and freak it out... try petting it. dont furiously grab it..... put it by your heart so it can hear your heart beat when hold it... be gentle and always talk to it sweet remember that... they are tameable and can even do tricks.

just like any other animal it needs time and work

Answer 3

yes thats normal they are probably just nervous

Answer 4

Guinea pigs (like all pets) need to be handled regularly and properly to be calm with ppl.  Some breeders are just in it for the $ or can't be bothered to stop there pets from multiplying, so they don't handle the babies enuf to tame.  You can often get these nervous babies to relax by holding in a towel so they don't scratch,and giving treats so they realize being with ppl = food.  They like their noses stroked best I've found.  Look for a pig that is calm when you put your hand in the cage, and will take food from you. Then handle everyday .. if you leave in a hutch alone you'll have a wild critter.   PS tame or not....they will ALWAYS p**p on you  :)  Rats are far more social, smell better, and are much more interesting and affectionate.