We adopted our little guys around 3 weeks ago. They are around 24 weeks old but still jumpy little boys. They eat veg from our hands but bolt at the slightest movement. The other day I introduced a shoe box into the cage to introduce some petting time. They went in (for food) but got jumpy one I lifted them out. I just let the kids hold the box and feed and touch them for a couple of mins before putting them back in but just wanted to check that I'm doing it right?
How to bond
- Thread starter Marnes
- Start date
Siikibam
Senior Guinea Pig
I think the advise is to handle daily for a few minutes and extending that period over time. When you pick them up, use a tube or hidey etc, don’t chase them around. When you take them out, give them a treat (pepper, coriander etc). Also sit next to their cage and talk to them sometimes. And as you approach where they are, talk. A predator wouldn't make its presence known! 
Remember they don’t lose their prey instincts, and also bear in mind they may not enjoy lap time - not all piggies do.
It’s good they’re eating from your hand. In the case of piggies slow and steady wins the race. May I ask where you got them (Rescue etc)? Pet shop piggies aren’t handled as much so may take time to get used to you.
Remember they don’t lose their prey instincts, and also bear in mind they may not enjoy lap time - not all piggies do.
It’s good they’re eating from your hand. In the case of piggies slow and steady wins the race. May I ask where you got them (Rescue etc)? Pet shop piggies aren’t handled as much so may take time to get used to you.
Cyaneatscarrots
Junior Guinea Pig
I think you are doing everything right, it takes some piggies a while to settle in. When I first got my boys, I would often stand near the cage and (as stange as this sounds), talk to them in order to get them used to your presence. When you are handling them, give them some veggies to distract them whilst they are being pet.
Good luck!
Good luck!
I think the advise is to handle daily for a few minutes and extending that period over time. When you pick them up, use a tube or hidey etc, don’t chase them around. When you take them out, give them a treat (pepper, coriander etc). Also sit next to their cage and talk to them sometimes. And as you approach where they are, talk. A predator wouldn't make its presence known!
Remember they don’t lose their prey instincts, and also bear in mind they may not enjoy lap time - not all piggies do.
It’s good they’re eating from your hand. In the case of piggies slow and steady wins the race. May I ask where you got them (Rescue etc)? Pet shop piggies aren’t handled as much so may take time to get used to you.
I adopted them from Pets at Home. They had been sold and returned because the previous owner's child lost interest. I suspect they haven't had the best start in life. Both have quite damaged ears which look as if they've been bitten or torn when they were younger.