Should she get her a playmate?

[jhp]

My friends guinea pig died this morning, she was 5 years old so a good age but leaves behind her sister. my friend is worried that the other will die soon due to being on her own. But should she get her a playmate and what age a baby, 6months+?

 

[sally]

a friend is always good. perhaps take her to a rescue so she can pick one out herself

 

[fi.cantillon]

It is important to get friends as soon as is practical. It is really about the piggie choosing her friend rather than us so Sally is right that a rescue is the best place to go as they can correctly advise and help with match ups and be at hand if you are unsure about anything. Where abouts are you?

 

[Goldie]

Sorry to hear about the gp passing away. The sister should not die just because she is alone, but she will be lonely so perhaps not eat as much as before when she had competition over food. Piggies are herd animals so they do need company.

There are a couple of options available. A neutered boar or a single baby sow, or even two. I say two, but only if the accommodation is large enough, because the sow is obviously five years old as well. There are lots of lonely pigs out there looking for a new home.

But it is always a difficult one. You don't want the one left behind upset, but also you don't want to upset her by introducing a new companion that she doesn't get on with, if you know what I mean.