New Guinea pigs help!

[Sar1987]

Can I pick someone's brain I adopted 2 lil pigs a few days ago there 14 month old sisters been together since birth but since I have had them they won't eat there food they eat cucumber carrots etc and there hay but won't touch there food and not sure if they drink an awful lot as they drink out of a bowl. They also seem to have gone very jumpy they don't squeak or do any of there emotion traits like they did with last owner are they pineing so to speak any help I'd great fully apreciate x I'm sorry if I have started a wrong thread etc but I'm new to this and not sure what I'm doing lol

 

[MerryPip]

For a start, don't panic! Piggies are quite emotional creatures and they take a while to settle down especially after a move. They will take a week or two to realise that you are keeping them and they do not need to move again. Sit by their cage and talk gently with them so they get used to the sound of your voice. Be patient and try feeding them by hand, it takes a while for them to trust you but they will come round slowly.

If you have to pick them up try using a tunnel or cosy to herd them into so they can feel safe and enclosed. Makesure they have places to hide in their cage so they can get out of the way and feel safe. Piggies are a prey species so are naturally wary of new sounds, people and surroundings.

Just take it slowly and soon they will be settled, squeaking for veg and happier to see you.

 

[Mr. Bailee Boy]

I have a suggestion, I use a water bottle that can be hung on the side of my little mans cage. It has ounces posted on its side (up to 32oz). With the measuring on its side I am able to see if my little man has drunk 2oz or 4oz in the day. Pellet food should be only 1/4 cup per feeding (2 feeding per day) this way you can see if they are interested in pellet food. Sometimes you have to try different kinds to know which kind they prefer. Also a large size hide-away help them to feel safe and secure. They both will use it at the same time which is pleasant to see. Good luck.

 

[Sar1987]

Hi thanks for your help the take vegetables off me no problem and they love me cuddling them etc just won't eat there pellet food they have been fed it for 14 months now and all of a sudden wont eat it. I presumed it was because of the move but I was worried in case they got to anxious or pined for previous owners too much and they became ill. They don't drink out of a water bottle as when previous owners had them the vet told her water bottles are un hygienic esp when more than one using it so its best to learn them how to drink out of a bowl which she has done. They go and have there nails clipped every few months and have had vets checks and they have always been healthy I was wondering do I buy another brand of food or just keep putting this down ?