It is a known fact that it is always best to get a pair, instead just one cavy. We initially got one cavy, a black and white American sow. After reading how sociable guinea pigs are, we decided to add another American sow until we almost have a herd right now - 13 cavies and 3 pups, a total of 16 cavies. Well, it is definitely a large group. Our cavies are not living in just a single cage, but divided in double cages and single cages.
Cavies can get stressed out easily, particularly if they are alone. It is always best that cavies are in pairs or in groups. The sows get along well when they are in a group. Even though minor quarrels cannot be avoided, rest assured that it will subside quickly. As for the boars, they should not be kept as a group since there is a high chance that quarrels will arise, thus ending up biting each other. In our case though, we were able to keep three boars together in one cage. Even though they get along well, they barbered each other. Of course, we were disappointed, especially with our Lunkarya boar whose curly hair was trimmed down, almost looking like an Abyssinian.
Hopefully, once we can purchase new cages, specifically the triple cages, we can provide our cavies with their own space. It is definitely the best way to prevent them from barbering each other.
In case you decide to keep a group of cavies all together in one living space, it is best to keep several boars and sows. The members of the group are well aware of the rules, thus keeping any aggression at bay.
No comments:
Post a Comment