Thinking about getting another and I am so confused!

[graciebell]

Hello everyone!

I have been learning so much from this website and forum - it is great!

After hearing about how Lynard probably needed to get a friend, my husband and I have been thinking about it and researching it. And, we have been left utterly confused. The books seem to all say different things. They encourage you to get another guinea, but also tell you that males may fight (which I guess is their job it to give you the pros and cons). So, we can't decide what to do! We have had Lynard a week, and he is getting used to us (he is still a little skiddish, but getting better), but I think he will be happy with a friend.

I have read in books that you are supposed to neuter males, but also read online that you don't have to. I don't think we are going to neuter them.

I am just worried about them not getting a long, and I don't want either one of them to get hurt. I have read that it is best to get ones that are litter mates, but Lynard was by himself when we got him. And, I have also read that it is best to get them both when they are young, but we also don't know how old Lynard is (he is pretty small).

So, what should we do? I am just so confused! Thanks everyone and I am so sorry this is so long!

 

[mncavylover]

The books seem to all say different things.

First of all, books are confusing. Period. Many, many of them give out completely false and misleading information. I was confused, too, that's why I found this site. =)

They encourage you to get another guinea, but also tell you that males may fight (which I guess is their job it to give you the pros and cons).

This is an extremely common misconception. Males will get along just as easily as females. Gender doesn't matter in a same-sex bonding, just the personality of the individual pig.

I have read in books that you are supposed to neuter males, but also read online that you don't have to. I don't think we are going to neuter them.

Nope, you don't need to and you shouldn't. It won't change their behavior a bit, and it's risky besides. See https://www.cavyspirit.com/neutering.htm for more info.

And, I have also read that it is best to get them both when they are young, but we also don't know how old Lynard is (he is pretty small).

If your pig is young, try pairing him with an older buddy. They will usually get along quite well that way, perhaps better than getting a buddy of the same age.

I hope this helps you, and good luck! =)

 

[ChadWPB]

Ack. I was going to reply, but mncavylovewr seems to have it covered quite well. I can only add some required reading:

https://www.guinealynx.info/links.html

https://www.cavyspirit.com/sociallife.htm

Good, accurate information that works. Otherwise, I back up mncavylover on the points that she has made in her post.

 

[graciebell]

Thank yall so much! I appreciate all of the info! I just want things to work out!

 

[mncavylover]

Haha, sorry about that Chad. I guess my "youthful" fingers just beat yours (just kidding!) =)

 

[ChadWPB]

I'll rap you with my cane! (j/k)

Good luck in your piggie search, graciebell.