Constant rumble-strutting

[CavyL0ver]

I adopted a baby boar 4 days ago for my 3 month old lone boar and they are currently living in a 2x6 C&C cage with a divider. The 3 month old boar is constantly rumble-strutting next to the cage divider. Is this normal? Should I start the bonding process already or should I wait a couple of days?

 

[Piggies&buns]

Please start the neutral territory bonding. Both piggies are too young to be alone so bonding them is in their best interests.

Do note you are going to see a lot of these kinds of dominance behaviours. It is important though that once you put them together, that you do not separate them again unless the bonding clearly fails (ie a fight occurs). Upon successful introduction, it will take them around two weeks to fully form their relationship.

Bonding and Interaction: Illustrated social behaviours and bonding dynamics
A Comprehensive Guide to Guinea Pig Boars
Dominance Behaviours In Guinea Pigs

 

[Wiebke]

Hi!

Please introduce your two after you have double-checked the gender of the baby. Both are at an age when the need for company and guidance comes before any other consideration. Make sure that the baby has got a retreat with two small exits that your larger boy cannot get into, whether that is a cardboard box or a tunnel and that you have ideally got a piggy-sized humping toy for your overexcited older boy. The intro always should be conducted in a neutral place that is not part of th normal territory as that can cause a hostile over-reaction if a piggy is feeling invaded. The neutral ground creates an open herd situation that puts both piggies in equal footing to start with.

He is just sooo happy and his hormones are likely to be woken up by the presence of the baby.

Please take the time to read our very helpful guide links; especially the step-by-step bonding guide with pictures and videos.

All the best.