Territorial Sow

[Phoebe-PP]

Hi there,

I rescued my two girls back in June, Primrose is the mum (not known how old) and Tessie is her baby who was born in May.

Recently Primrose has become very territorial over a space in their cage. They live in a 4x2 c&c with a 2x1 loft, and Prim has definitely claimed the space under the loft. She isn’t aggressive but will chase/lunge at Tess to get her out of her space. There’s never been any issues with guarding food or water, they have plenty of other hidey spaces which Tess uses, it’s just that one space.

Is this something to worry about or any advice? Thank you!

 

[KathT]

I have an older sow who reacts very similarly to Prim, though the younger female isn’t her daughter. I think this is just the natural hierarchy between them, Prim is dominant and Tessie is subordinate, so Tessie will give way all the time. Sometimes there is more squeaking if either of them has a strong season, but generally they live happily together.

 

[Claire W]

I agree. It sounds like normal dominant behaviour. So long as there’s so fighting and blood isn’t drawn and Primrose is allowing Tessie to eat, drink and rest in other areas of the cage, I wouldn’t worry

 

[Phoebe-PP]

Great advice thank you! I just don’t want Tessie to be living in stress, especially as she’s only 4 months old.