Bond with my Guineas pig

[Piggy1011]

How do you knowledgeable people suggest I bond with my piggy to try and earn his trust?
I’m am currently waiting for him to be neutered to get him a couple of girlfriends. I’ve had him for a week and every night I’m reading to him, giving him veg to coax him out he’s hiding hole while I’m around. He is slowly getting better but still runs away if I move my hand slightly. He is from gumtree, approx 2/3 I’ve been told. Has bald patch which he is getting treatment on. Any advice would be greatly received. Thanks

 

[Piggy1011]

I have brought him inside also to try and get him used to the family voices. I didn’t want him outside all alone.

 

[Siikibam]

Hi there. There’s a link about piggy whispering - Understanding Prey Animal Instincts, Guinea Pig Whispering And Cuddling Tips
That should hopefully answer all your question. Remember they’re prey animals so even when they settle with you that instinct is still in them.

 

[Piggy1011]

Thanks I did have a look. I’m wondering if people that have had their piggies long term, that their piggies still flinch sometimes?

 

[Claire W]

Hello and welcome. I’ve had my piggies for over 3 piggies and they still run when I go to pick them up

 

[Piggy1011]

My sisters guinea pigs are the same. So do you think I should wait until he has taken veg out my hand before I try and cuddle him?

 

[Merab]

Not all piggies like being cuddled.
I have a 3 year old who will still run away on occasion and sometimes will sit to be petted.
It really does take time and patience to gain a guinea pig’s trust.
Talk to them all the time so they come to know your voice, offer veg from your hand, take things at their pace and ensure that they feel safe.
They are prey animals so their first instinct is always “You’re going to eat me - hide”

The best way to a guinea pig’s heart is through its stomach so you’re on the right path when they associate you with nice things to eat.
Bonding usually takes longer than we realise.

 

[Piggy1011]

Thanks, I’ll just carrying on with what I’m doing and I’ll wait to hold him until I know he’s abit more comfortable with it.

 

[Piggy1011]

Piggie took lettuce from my hand today. Eeeek! Guna try again tomoz

 

[Merab]

Lovely to hear.
My new baby also decided it was safe to snatch an offered lettuce leaf from my hand this morning.
It’s a good feeling

 

[Piggy1011]

Aww that’s so sweet. It sure is. He nibbled away while I held on to it