Q&A for How to Hold a Guinea Pig

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What does it mean when the guinea pig makes a strange churtling sound when they're being held?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Guinea pigs have a wide and enchanting range of vocal signals. Most alarm calls are high pitched, such as the "Weep weep" alarm call. At the opposite end of the tonal range they have a low, almost growling sound which is also associated with distress. However, sounds such as purring, wheeking, and churtling are usually signs the guinea pig is happy, content, or hungry!

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Question

I hold my guinea pig correctly, and yet he scratches my wrist when I put him down. What should I do?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Have someone video you as you put the guinea pig down, and see if you can spot how to make him feel safer. The guinea pig may well be scrabbling because he feels unsafe. If there doesn't seem to be a problem, place a soft towel over his head, which should help him stay calm as you lower him. Also, ask a vet tech to check that his claws aren't too long.

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Question

Can a guinea pig live up to 10 years old?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Unfortunately this is unlikely. With good care and a healthy diet, the maximum age for a guinea pig is around eight years, with anywhere from 4 - 5 years upwards considered a good age for a guinea pig.

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Question

How should I schedule cuddle time for my guinea pig?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Guinea pigs are social animals and once used to people, love cuddles and attention. As long as the guinea pig is happy, then cuddle as often as you like. However, it's a good idea to cuddle sitting on the floor and have a hide close to your lap. That way when the guinea pig has had enough, they can retreat to the hide. Also, if cuddling for long periods of time, give the guinnie something some vegetables or hay to munch on as they need to eat little and often.

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