New and need advice on adding a second pig

[cowgirlkitt]

I got a baby pig in May (2 months ago) and would now like to add another so I have two. I've never had two, always just one, and realize how much happier my pig will be with a companion. I've been reading this forum about introductions but don't really know my pig's personality well, being that she is an only pig and I've only had her for 2 months. She is sweet and easy going so far. So what is my best bet for adding another? Get another baby? I just made a larger cage (2X4 with a loft) so I'm ready, just not sure of the best way. Also, can I just put a separator panel in the cage for them to get to know each other before I put them together or if they're both young should I just put them together?

[Catahoula]

For the best information about introductions, please read Guinea Pigs Social Life

This will tell you all about how to pick a pig companion, quarentine periods, and proper introductions.

If you adopt from a rescue they will let you bring in your pig, so that she can pick her new friend. Chances are she'll easily get along with another baby or an older female.

[aemsva]

I would also like to know how to determine my pigs personality, she is an only pig and it sweet with me, but with another pig it she's probably much different.

How exactly will you know if two pigs are suitable for eachother? They will just be "peaceful" quickly type of thing?

[Catahoula]

I would also like to know how to determine my pigs personality, she is an only pig and it sweet with me, but with another pig it she's probably much different.

How exactly will you know if two pigs are suitable for eachother? They will just be "peaceful" quickly type of thing?

Pigs are herd animals and generally accepting of their own kind. Rarely to you come across a lone pig that would prefer to live without the company of others.

If you were to introduce your pig to another, they would have to work out the hierarchy. It is completely natural for them to make displays of dominance until one is the leader and the other is submissive. Occasionally the submissive will challenege the hierarchy and the roles may change.

Hierarchy is determined by mounting, chasing, nipping, and nose-offs. Nothing that overly aggressive. That's why during introductions you are instructed to leave the pigs together to let them work it out unless there is bloodshed or if one is bullying the other to the point it can't eat or drink.

[cowgirlkitt]

Great additional question aemsva. I also needed clarification. So now to add more.....I have been looking to adopt the second but nothing is available in my area except 2 females that are already bonded. My current cage is 2X4 so I would need to add another panel, but is adding 2 to one looking for trouble?

[Catahoula]

My current cage is 2X4 so I would need to add another panel, but is adding 2 to one looking for trouble?

Adding your girl to an already bonded pair can work. You will need to expand your cage to at least a 2x5 and you might want to get a hidey, water bottle, and food dish for all 3.

Are the 2 girls you are interested in at a rescue, so you can do trial introductions to get an idea of how they'll get along before you bring them home?

[cowgirlkitt]

I found a single female locally so we're picking her up on Tuesday! The two I was looking at were at a private home that lost interest. This one is with a young girl who also lost interest, probably a good thing as the supplies she is sending with the pig include a collar and leash!
We're looking forward to rescuing this pig and having a pair. Thanks for your input and I'll let you know how the introductions go.

[Catahoula]

I found a single female locally so we're picking her up on Tuesday! The two I was looking at were at a private home that lost interest. This one is with a young girl who also lost interest, probably a good thing as the supplies she is sending with the pig include a collar and leash!
We're looking forward to rescuing this pig and having a pair. Thanks for your input and I'll let you know how the introductions go.

Glad to hear you found a single piggy that needs a good home. Hands down, I'm sure you will give this little girl a better life than her previous owner.

Be sure to give her a 3 week quarantine period. This will make sure your baby girl doesn't get sick with anything the new pig may have. I know it's hard to wait, but it costs less money and less stress if you end up having to take 1 pig to the vet rather than 2.

Best of Luck!!!