Skinny (and Guinea) Pig Licking Behavior.

[lilies4lace]

Hello!

I recently got two male skinny pigs, Ishmael and Ranidmere, and I've noticed some cute but quirky behaviors in them. Both of them are big into licking me; basically, if they have access to any unexposed skin they will plop down and begin to lick (and nibble) at me. At first I thought it was something on my skin; salt maybe, however Ishmael will do it after I've showered so I know there's nothing tantalizing on me I've always had female guinea pigs, and none of them have ever done this. Is this a positive behaviour or should I be concerned about dental or diet issues? I've had Ishmael for less than a week, and got Randimere (who is quite ill and quarantined) last night. I would like to think they just find me awesome and are showing their affection, but I thought I'd check to see if this could be something else before I got too enamoured with the behaviour

Also, Ishmael is very into it. If I make him stop and pet him instead, he wheeks and wheeks until I let him go back to it.

(I accidentally posted this in the general chat as well! Apologies for the repeat, I was just informed this section might be better!)

 

[Wiebke]

Sometimes, it is a craving for the minerals and salt on your skin. Mine always lick my mum because of that. If the licking from new guinea pigs is very pronounced, it may be an idea to try a mineral lick to help bridge the problem of a previous unbalanced diet. Normally, lick wheels are not necessary in a balanced diet and are usually completely disregarded by well fed piggies for that reason. You'll know that things are OK when they stop using the lick. Alternatively, try to feed mineral rich fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro/(UK) coriander, dill or mint.

It can also be a sign of affection! Feel blessed if that is the case!

 

[Freela]

Some guinea pigs just like to lick people... Sundae is a licker. Hadley too, but not as much as Sundae. Linney and Frenzy really never did. I think it's just a sign of affection, 'grooming the human.' We may also have scents/tastes on our skin, from salt to things we've touched, that they find interesting. Though especially in the case of the pig who has been through some deprivation before coming to you, I would be concerned about lacking minerals too, so the mineral lick is probably a good idea. Though hopefully you'll still get kisses even when that balances out!