Help with Bonding

[MacK]

Apologies I've been posting a lot lately! I really just want my lil dude to get comfortable. I've had my little guy since Easter I believe he is at most 4 months old , he is a beautiful Abyssinian, so if you know anything about them they are full of energy and can be naughty (I did my research). I've been reading a lot of post about bonding and I hold him every day and give him in fave. treats and I feel like he is getting more comfortable BUT it's only when I am stand or have him on my chest on the love seat.... he wont stay still if I put him next to me on the big couch, he will come and explore me and put his front feet up but won't lay on my lap and let me pet him or fall asleep :-( I want nothing more than to have him be comfy and not afraid but I don't know if his age or type of guinea pig has anything to do with it, or if I am doing something wrong.

 

[DM030819]

Hi @MacK! Some pigs just aren't cuddly pigs. To be honest the majority of mine weren't. They much prefer exploring.

The fact that he's happy to climb on you and wander around shows that he's happy and comfortable around you,

It's just something we have to live with. I've learned to live with it and I love watching them exploring around on the floor.

 

[MacK]

@Jaycey thank you that makes me feel better!

 

[Wiebke]

Apologies I've been posting a lot lately! I really just want my lil dude to get comfortable. I've had my little guy since Easter I believe he is at most 4 months old , he is a beautiful Abyssinian, so if you know anything about them they are full of energy and can be naughty (I did my research). I've been reading a lot of post about bonding and I hold him every day and give him in fave. treats and I feel like he is getting more comfortable BUT it's only when I am stand or have him on my chest on the love seat.... he wont stay still if I put him next to me on the big couch, he will come and explore me and put his front feet up but won't lay on my lap and let me pet him or fall asleep :-( I want nothing more than to have him be comfy and not afraid but I don't know if his age or type of guinea pig has anything to do with it, or if I am doing something wrong.

Hi! The majority of piggies are not cuddlers if you give them the choice.
However you may find these guides here helpful in understanding social behaviours and in making friends with him in ways that he can understand instinctively.
Understanding Prey Animal Instincts, Guinea Pig Whispering And Cuddling Tips
Bonding: Illustrated Dominance Behaviours And Dynamics

If you could see your way to getting him a companion for the longer term that would be great; you will enjoy the interaction between them that is what makes guinea pigs so unique and special.
Companionship

More helpful and practical information for new owners via this link here: Getting Started - New Owners' Most Helpful Guides
You can find many more guides on a wide range of subjects via our guide shortcut on the top bar, but are always welcome to ask any questions in our Care sections.

 

[MacK]

@Wiebke I have read those and that's what made me create this tread lol. I want to get Norm a buddy I am just afraid because I got Norm from a feedery (from a small town, no real pet stores) and he was badly infested with mites. I put A LOT of money into getting him properly treated and many vet visits and I have finally gotten him healthy. I don't have many options on places to get guinea pigs and I really don't want to get another one and have him be infested as well thats my only delay on getting Norm a pal.