How Often Should You Handle Your Guinea Pig?

[Cavyloverxox]

i currently have one pig but I'm getting another on Friday, I handle gus about 1-3 times a day, is that okay?

 

[lisablue]

Hi Ive got two piggies, the white one get picked up about 10 tens a day, she loves it and lifts herself up on the cage waiting for me, or squeaks when I go passed. The brown on is not so keen, shes not happy when out of her cage,

 

[Cavyloverxox]

Hi Ive got two piggies, the white one get picked up about 10 tens a day, she loves it and lifts herself up on the cage waiting for me, or squeaks when I go passed. The brown on is not so keen, shes not happy when out of her cage,

Thanks for your reply, Gus doesn't really like it but I'm trying to get him used to it

 

[Tiny]

Marble isn't overly keen on being handled, it's like she can't fully relax, she'll eat, but get bored and fidgety. I respect that from her and don't push for more.

Willow on the other hand, is a real attention seeker (I've just made a thread on it... ) and will happily sit on my lap for half hour or so facing the telly (I can't bring myself to say she's actively watching it; think it's a bit of a curiosity for her!).

My point is, all pigs are different, I'd say if you're trying to increase handling and lap time, do it slowly and gently and always be led by your pig - stressing them out by over-handling will not make them any more trusting or less nervy!

Good luck - lap time is a great way to fully discover your pigs personality, and gaining their trust so they're comfortable with being handled is so rewarding

 

[Cavyloverxox]

Marble isn't overly keen on being handled, it's like she can't fully relax, she'll eat, but get bored and fidgety. I respect that from her and don't push for more.

Willow on the other hand, is a real attention seeker (I've just made a thread on it... ) and will happily sit on my lap for half hour or so facing the telly (I can't bring myself to say she's actively watching it; think it's a bit of a curiosity for her!).

My point is, all pigs are different, I'd say if you're trying to increase handling and lap time, do it slowly and gently and always be led by your pig - stressing them out by over-handling will not make them any more trusting or less nervy!

Good luck - lap time is a great way to fully discover your pigs personality, and gaining their trust so they're comfortable with being handled is so rewarding

Thanks for your help! He's becoming a bit more confident than when I first got him but if I go near his cage he just runs away!

 

[Freela]

I try to plop them on my lap for a pat once a day, usually in the evening. On many days, they will also sit on the couch with one of the kids as well.

 

[Cavyloverxox]

I try to plop them on my lap for a pat once a day, usually in the evening. On many days, they will also sit on the couch with one of the kids as well.

Thank you

 

[BossHogg]

Alfie and Sadie absolutely love being petted and stroked, that's who my grandkids make a beeline for when they visit, Luna wriggles a bit but soon settles down, Stella thinks you're trying to murder her with kindness and wheeks her lungs out, she soon settles when she realises food is on offer!

 

[TheCavySlave]

It all depends on the piggy! Often we'll scoop up a piglet for a quick cuddle because how can you reisst their FACES? Some pigs would start getting hugely annoyed if they're constantly picked up, but others adore the attention.