Videos Is it okay to lay guinea pigs on their back?

[pandaloki]

I've seen videos of people laying them on their backs like they were human babies. Is this okay to do? I've also seen some who are taught to play dead.

 

[C1407]

I never thought it was good for them. I've seen pictures of pigs on their backs on this site and it's made me wonder even more.

 

[foggycreekcavy]

I don't see how they could be comfortable like that. I've never tried, though, since it seems a bit, well, mean.

 

[Pretty Piggies]

I saw a really cute picture of a guinea pig on its back sitting in a chair. I tried to copy it, but my piggies flipped right back over.

 

[cavywheekness]

I know this post is a week old, but I'd still like to mention that it's not a good idea because guinea pigs are prey animals and being on their back is a vulnerable position. It definitely freaks them out. Just to be on the safe side I'd say it's something you should only do when you have to help them that way such as with an impaction.

 

[CavyMama]

Also keep in mind that a guinea pig's spine has a natural curve to it so putting them on their back puts pressure on their spine. It can't be comfortable for them.

 

[ally112087]

I was also told that when guinea pigs are on their back it is harder for them to breath

 

[CanadianComforts]

My Reko like to lay on his back in the cage and out of it. When he snuggles he will roll over until he is on his back. Some pigs hate it while some love it. I would never force a pig to lay on their backs though.

Keep in mind when I took these photos I had my knees up so it was more of a reclined position. But as you can see from these photos he doesn't look scared or in pain or anything.

Some belly rubs:

 

[kittymalone]

He does look incredibly comfortable and so cute.

 

[pinky]

If a guinea pig does it himself, I'd allow it. I'd never place one on its back, even it it's on a surface that comforms to its spine. They're pretty fragile and have been known to break their spines in hamster balls and from falls so I wouldn't want to chance it.

 

[pandaloki]

I love agouties!

 

[CanadianComforts]

If a guinea pig does it himself, I'd allow it. I'd never place one on its back, even it it's on a surface that comforms to its spine. They're pretty fragile and have been known to break their spines in hamster balls and from falls so I wouldn't want to chance it.

I agree. Reko is the only pig I've ever had who does it on his own. He's odd though .

 

[pinky]

I agree. Reko is the only pig I've ever had who does it on his own. He's odd though .

I've seen a few that have done it on their own, too. We have an annual pignic for our rescue where people bring their guinea pigs. I've seen some roll over and lay on their backs like that. If they like doing it, I wouldn't deprive them of their simple pleasure.

 

[kathlaaron]

CanadianComforts, thanks so much for sharing your photos of Reko ! What an adorable little fellow !! He is such a CUTIEPIE !