How to introduce and when

[Kazlee600]

Sadly last night we lost our old boy Freddie, Bert has always lived with Freddie and they had a really strong bond. Since Freddie has passed Bert has refused his veggies and won’t move from his house.
He seems so sad. I have another 2 piggies which had to be separated due to fighting (brothers).
I am thinking that Bert won’t copw alone and thinking of introducing one of my other piggies Roger or Steve to Bert.
I would have got a baby for Bert but due to cold temps and my piggies are kept outside in a out building I feel it will be too cold for a baby so this isn’t an option.
When and how is the best way to try Bert at bonding with one of my other males.
I’m so sad and worried for Bert

 

[Wiebke]

Sadly last night we lost our old boy Freddie, Bert has always lived with Freddie and they had a really strong bond. Since Freddie has passed Bert has refused his veggies and won’t move from his house.
He seems so sad. I have another 2 piggies which had to be separated due to fighting (brothers).
I am thinking that Bert won’t copw alone and thinking of introducing one of my other piggies Roger or Steve to Bert.
I would have got a baby for Bert but due to cold temps and my piggies are kept outside in a out building I feel it will be too cold for a baby so this isn’t an option.
When and how is the best way to try Bert at bonding with one of my other males.
I’m so sad and worried for Bert

Hi!

I am every so sorry for your loss!

Please have Bert vet checked tomorrow to make sure that there is no underlying health issue. Try syringe feed and water if he is not eating. sometimes that can also kick start the eating again.
If the vet cannot find anything, then you are dealing with acute pining. In that case, new company can make all the difference, so bonding should happen asap. Make sure that you keep your piggies warm and tight over the winter.

This guide here discusses acute pining and what to do: Looking After A Bereaved Guinea Pig

Bonding: Bonding: Illustrated Dominance Behaviours And Dynamics

Cold weather care tips (considering the current cold snap in the UK): Cold Weather Care For Guinea Pigs

All the best! Worrying about a bereaved companion is always adding a heavy burden to your aching soul.

 

[Kazlee600]

Thank you so much.
I’ve just been out to Bert and managed to encourage him to eat a small piece of carrot and he is having some hay.
They have a specially built building around their hutches aswell as insulation and lots of warm bedding for winter.
I believe this is nothing more than pining. Luckily I am a veterinary nurse and everything else appears normal with Bert, passing urine and droppings but I think he’s felt the loss badly.
I will attempt to bond him tomorrow rather than waiting as I think it will help him. Freddie was an old pig and eventually old age took him .
Thank you for your kind words.
I didn’t want to force Critical care down him tonight as it’s very early but certainly will start to introduce tomorrow if he appetite doesn’t increase xx