introducing a new cagemate

[savyyy_44]

So my guinea pig, butterscotch, recently lost his cage-mate due to old age. He seems to be a little lethargic and I was planning on attempting to bond him with a new guinea pig to bring back his spark. How long should I wait after Caramel’s death to start placing the two cages close together?

 

[Piggies&buns]

I’m sorry for your loss.

He can have a new friend as soon as you feel he needs to. Somewhere between 1 and 4 weeks but can need to be sooner if he is struggling being alone.

You bond them by putting them in neutral bonding pen. The guide below explains how to bond them

Bonding and Interaction: Illustrated social behaviours and bonding dynamics | The Guinea Pig Forum

 

[Bill & Ted]

Is there any rescues who could bond Butterscotch is a little lonesome boar near you. I know they are few and far between in the US

 

[Wiebke]

Hi and welcome

I m very sorry for your loss. You are welcome to post a tribute with pictures in our Rainbow section at any stage during or after the grieving process if you feel that it would help you. The section is there as a courtesy for those members who would like to share a more tangible memorial.
Human Bereavement: Grieving, Processing and Support Links for Guinea Pig Owners and Their Children | The Guinea Pig Forum

Here is our quite detailed and practical advice for looking after bereaved guinea pigs and finding new companionship. If you are in any doubt about a potential health issue, then please see a vet. The loss of a companion can sometimes impact on the immune system and bring underlying issues to the fore; especially in older piggies.

Please take the time to read through the various guides and relevant chapters that are looking at different aspects of bereaved singles and boar companionship to help you avoid as many of the most common pitfalls as possible; you should find them both helpful and interesting:

- Looking After a Bereaved Guinea Pig | The Guinea Pig Forum

- Single Guinea Pigs - Challenges and Responsibilities | The Guinea Pig Forum (includes a chapter on challenges with bereaved guinea pigs and how to spot when a single piggy is starting to transfer their social needs onto you)
- A Comprehensive Guide to Guinea Pig Boars | The Guinea Pig Forum (see chaptersages and companionship)
- Adding More Guinea Pigs Or Merging Pairs – What Works And What Not? | The Guinea Pig Forum

- Rescues (Adoption and Dating), Shops, Breeders or Online? - What to consider when getting guinea pigs | The Guinea Pig Forum
- List of recommended US rescues: Guinea Lynx :: Rescue Organizations

Especially when bringing home a bor for bonding you will need to have a plan B (divided cage) in reserve in case they do not gel. Is your cage large enough for two singles cages?