Although the guinea pig has become quite mainstream among pet lovers, many people do not understand the basics to keeping one or more guinea pigs happy. In fact, most potential guinea pig owners ask questions revolving around the number of these pets that should be owned at one time, how to control them if they don't get along and commonly asked is if there is a need to separate these pets. These pets make a fantastic pet however it is wise to learn about them before you go out and get a clan of them to enjoy in your home.



The Guinea Pig Social Structure

Among the current facts and knowledge that has been gained through the years of studying these animals, it is obvious that the guinea pig is a social animal that thrives when they are among peers. This is the same as in a pet setting as in the wild setting as guinea pigs are happier when they are with family however, in a closed cage situation there is sometimes the call to separate them so that they are not fighting.

Typically when two or more females are placed in one setting they will battle for the boss position and in this situation, the recommendation is to separate them for a period much like you would two children. It is best that if you have cavies that are physically fighting or picking on another, to separate guinea pigs that are having the conflict and reintroduce them in the same cage at another time. Remember to keep a close eye on them so they don't cause serious harm to one another and even death!

Other Factors Weighing In The Separation of Guinea Pigs

There are a few other factors that can cause the demand for the call to separate them such as an inadequate cage. If the cage is too small for the animals they will often get into conflict because each guinea pig needs a comfortable amount of space.

It is of equal importance that if you have had to separate guinea pigs for any reason that you keep them beside each other in separate cages so that they can maintain a safe level of interaction. It is also imperative that the second cage that you may have had to implement to separate them is a good size so that neither guinea pig suffers from inadequate space as this can lead to health problems as well as depression.