Ear Queries

[htlcy]

Hi there, I have two sows about six months old. Have recently noticed one of them nibbles on the ear of the other and the nibbled ear has little nicks in it. Is this normal? Many thanks

 

[Beans&Toast]

Yeah when my girls were younger (they're about 2 now) they used to do this to each other. Even now, when one of them is in season, they'll have a little nibble, if it's hurting them they'll squeel to warn them off..

 

[Wiebke]

Hi there, I have two sows about six months old. Have recently noticed one of them nibbles on the ear of the other and the nibbled ear has little nicks in it. Is this normal? Many thanks

Ear nibbling is the mildest form of friendly dominance. it translates as "I welcome you to the herd I am leading". Very occasionally it can go a bit further, but as long as the bond is close, there is nothing you can do.
Illustrated Bonding Behaviours And Dynamics

 

[htlcy]

Thank you Wiebke and Beans&Toast! I'm still learning so much about them

 

[Beans&Toast]

Usually it's Toast who's nibbling Beans ears, but Beans usually doesn't mind it. Only if she nibbles too hard she'll give a little squeal to warm Toast to stop

 

[VickiA]

The first time I saw this years ago I was horrified, but it really is just a mild display of dominance - I see it as almost an affectionate power grooming type of behaviour. Guinea pig behaviour is fascinating - it's so much fun to watch and learn from your piggies.

 

[htlcy]

H

The first time I saw this years ago I was horrified, but it really is just a mild display of dominance - I see it as almost an affectionate power grooming type of behaviour. Guinea pig behaviour is fascinating - it's so much fun to watch and learn from your piggies.

Hi Vicki, definitely! I love watching them and I'm always wanting to understand them. These are my first real pets; I had pets as a child but these are completely my responsibility and I'm besotted! Didn't think I could love pets so much haha

 

[VickiA]

Just be warned @htlcy guniea pigs are addictive. There are many guinea pig addicts on here. You start with one pair and you just want more - they are a bit like the pet equivalent of crack .

 

[Dindypig]

I agree with the above. You will probably find that the 'nicks' are old and were done while they were babies.Many of the GPM pigs have nicked ears, some more raggety than others.

 

[htlcy]

I agree with the above. You will probably find that the 'nicks' are old and were done while they were babies.Many of the GPM pigs have nicked ears, some more raggety than others.

Thanks VickiA and Dindy pig! I definitely want more...I keep seeing piggies for rescue in my area and I can't help but feel sorry for them!