How should I introduce my new GP?

[LittleGems]

Hey,
One of my 2 piggy’s recently passes on April the 7th and I now have a lone pig. I’m going to get a new piggy this week that’s around the same age.
I was just wondering how I should introduce the new piggy to Bella( the old one) So should I put them new one in the occupied cage or something else?
Thanks a bunch!

 

[*kate*]

I bonded Hettie and Betty a few weeks ago. I set up a neutral space, I used a paddling pool with puppy pads in the bottom, and put a big pile of hay in the middle.

I added the piggies and observed them. After about 40 minutes there had been no aggression so I placed them both in their permanent enclosure and kept a close eye on them. They were fine together.

If you are getting your new Piggie from a Rescue then they may offer to do the bonding for you.

 

[Swissgreys]

Please start by reading this guide on bonding guinea pigs.
Bonding: Illustrated Dominance Behaviours And Dynamics

To give your piggies the best chance of bonding it is very important that you introduce them on neutral territory.
Never put a new piggy directly into another piggies territory - how would you feel if a total stranger walked into your home and sat down on the sofa!
It is all clearly described in the guide above, so it is well worth taking the time to read it.

 

[Cyaneatscarrots]

When I first introduced Malti to Milky, I kept them seperate for the first few days but made sure that they could see each other. I reccomend introducing them on neutural territory, such as the floor in a closed off room. There may be fighting in the beginning, and that is perfectly normal. To distract them, I put some food and upturned shoeboxes so they could hide and eat. Once they seem fine with each other, place them in their permanent home and keep an eye on them.
They will try to establish boundaries by showing acts of dominance ie. teeth chattering and chasing each other around the cage. It is only neccesary to intervene if physical harm is occuring to either of your piggies.