Introductions (Males)

[paula.m.moore]

Can you introduce a male baby (like 3 weeks old) to an already established and bonded pair of males? I have a coworker who got a guinea pig and quickly discovered he's not the pet for her. I certainly am not looking to adopt more but if it could be an easy transition I would be willing to take another one. I have three pairs of boars I could put the baby in with (not sure which pair would be best right now) but I want to be sure they would not try to hurt the baby because I don't really have any more room if they don't accept him.

I have also recently introduced females ... Three ladies live at the top of the condo. Each of the pairs of boys has their own level. They all seem to be doing well so far. Am I just asking for trouble if I offer to take the baby pig off my friend's hands?

[clotho]

If you really want to introduce a third male to an already bonded pair, I think a baby is your best bet. Adult guinea pigs tend to be fairly tolerant of babies and accept them well.

However, think ahead to when the baby hits puberty. You have to be prepared for the fact that the baby may get out of hand and fights may break out. You have to be prepared for the possibility (hopefully it won't happen - but it could) and have the resources/space to house him separately if the need arises.

If you do go for it, make sure the cage is big enough for 3 males and that you have more than one water bottle and food dish - plus hideys should have two exits so no one gets caught in a hidey. Make sure you do proper introductions. If it were me, I'd go straight to a buddy bath and full intro - but some people feel it should be a last resort. With males I've found buddy baths work well.

I actually had three males living together and then had to introduce a 3 week old baby to them. It went remarkably well. The older boys tolerated the baby very well. It was actually the baby who went nuts - trying to hump all the other boys non stop for hours!!! He finally settled down and all was well - no fights. It depends on the personalities of the piggies.

Good luck if you do decide to take on the little guy.