Deaf + Worsening vision Piggie Behaviour.

[JayF04]

So, I have a completely deaf 4-5 year old piggie. Prior to me having him he was housed alone as far as we know, he was also abused and very clearly incredibly inbred ( deformed feet, multiple nails growing from the same follicle and many other inner issues. )

We have tried socialising him with other piggies but no matter who it is he cannot stay with them and seems to act in a way that I can only describe as anxiety. Whenever another piggie even comes near him, he is extremely defensive and makes a very distorted whimpering noise. I also believe his vision maybe deteriorating.

As much as I want him to live the rest of his days with a friend.. I just don't think he should. Since I've housed him with another pig he's become so stressed.

I don't know what to do.. Should I house him alone?

 

[Bill & Ted]

Aw, poor little chap, such a shame for him. @Wiebke is your lady, she is very experienced with bonding and behaviour

 

[Merab]

Welcome to the forum
Well done in rescuing this poor little boy.
It sounds as if he’s landed on his paws with you and will now have a life of loving care

 

[Wiebke]

So, I have a completely deaf 4-5 year old piggie. Prior to me having him he was housed alone as far as we know, he was also abused and very clearly incredibly inbred ( deformed feet, multiple nails growing from the same follicle and many other inner issues. )

We have tried socialising him with other piggies but no matter who it is he cannot stay with them and seems to act in a way that I can only describe as anxiety. Whenever another piggie even comes near him, he is extremely defensive and makes a very distorted whimpering noise. I also believe his vision maybe deteriorating.

As much as I want him to live the rest of his days with a friend.. I just don't think he should. Since I've housed him with another pig he's become so stressed.

I don't know what to do.. Should I house him alone?

Hi and welcome!

It sounds like your poor boy has finally found a place where he is cherished and loved!

While companionship is in the vast majority to be desired, there are always a few piggies where this doesn't work out.

What is important is that you have tried and have given your boy the opportunity for companionship.
If he is happier on his own, then he has had his own say on the matter and you can with an easy heart concentrate on giving him the happy single life of his choice. I would still keep him in the piggy room as smell is a much stronger sense in guinea pigs than in humans; we tend to underestimate it.

Find him a toddler-safe soft toy to snuggle into and move around with.

Enrich his life with scents, tasters and tactile experiences. if he is happy in your company, spend time cuddling him and use the piggy whispering tips to speak to him with touches, like giving him piggy kisses.
Create various touching codes to tell him what is up, so he can brace for it, especially if he is developing cataracts.
Understanding Prey Animal Instincts, Guinea Pig Whispering And Cuddling Tips
Enrichment Ideas for Guinea Pigs (a few pictures and videos in this guide actually feature past cataract piggies of my own).

You may also find the videos of the lethal (blind/deaf) piggies at The Excellent Adventure Sanctuary for guinea pigs with special needs (i.e. chronic dental disease for the most part) helpful:
The Excellent Adventure Sanctuary (for guinea pigs with extra needs)