Dead Piggie

[Sarahbawesome]

Hello all! I have had 2 male piggies that I have housed together for almost 3 years now and sadly, one died last night. Is it weird that my other guinea pig seems a little happier since the other has past? Or will him being lonely and sad be a delayed affect? These were my first two pigs so I don't know what happens when one passes away.

 

[Piggies&buns]

I am sorry for your loss.
Guinea pigs grieve no differently to us, but often for a shorter time. He may not be happier but instead his survival instinct is there.

When the time is right, do look to a rescue centre to find him a new friend. It is early to be thinking about it, but he will get lonely and is likely to be ready for a new friend sooner than you would want to get another piggy.

I attached a guide below on how to look after a bereaved piggy.

Looking After A Bereaved Guinea Pig

 

[Wiebke]

Hello all! I have had 2 male piggies that I have housed together for almost 3 years now and sadly, one died last night. Is it weird that my other guinea pig seems a little happier since the other has past? Or will him being lonely and sad be a delayed affect? These were my first two pigs so I don't know what happens when one passes away.

Hi!

I am very sorry for your loss! A sudden unexpected death is always very upsetting.
You may find this guide here helpful now and in the coming days, especially if you have children: Human Bereavement: Grieving, Coping and Support Links for Guinea Pig Owners and Their Children

Like humans, guinea pigs can react very differently to the death of a companion. Some will give up on life while others carry on quite happily.
However, in the longer term, even the chirpy ones for who the loss of a rather dominant companion means initially freedom very often start to miss the constant stimulation from a companion and can gradually become depressed. Our singles guide is also looking at bereaved piggies and how you can spot signs of creeping depression/understimulation: Single Guinea Pigs - Challenges and Responsibilities