What could I be doing wrong?

Shanj19

Shanj19

Junior Guinea Pig
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Hi everyone.
Just a quick question. We’ve had the guinea pigs 4 weeks this Tuesday and they are still so jumpy! I know it’s in their nature to be jumpy but I’m talking I come into the room and they both just bolt into their hideys! Is this normal even after them being with us for almost 4 weeks?
 
I've had mine 2.5 years and she still runs and hides when I go to her cage, just ease them into contact, they'll become alot more comfortable. Don't stress about it though, aslong as you purposely distressing them I think they'll be fine, some are just more timid than others! :)
 
Claire W said:
Yes, it is perfectly normal. Your piggies are still getting used to their new surrounds and people. Just give them time :)
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Thank you! Just want to make sure it’s not something I’m doing! A family memeber said to take away their hideys but I wouldn’t do that
 
Shanj19 said:
Hi everyone.
Just a quick question. We’ve had the guinea pigs 4 weeks this Tuesday and they are still so jumpy! I know it’s in their nature to be jumpy but I’m talking I come into the room and they both just bolt into their hideys! Is this normal even after them being with us for almost 4 weeks?
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Be patient, but don't worry. Once one starts to bolt, the rest will. I can still create a stampede even now when my chair suddenly creaks or I get up from it suddenly... Piggies are prey animals. It doesn't mean that they are not settling in and growing in confidence. ;)
 
You have to remember they are prey animals and need to feel safe. If you take away their hideys they won't feel safe. Have you tried covering half the cage with an old towel or blanket?
 
Mine still do it after a year and 9 mths, I always say "if I was going to eat you I'd have done it before now."

They will feel safer with more hideys rather than fewer! They will never lose their prey instincts, but they will learn the sound of your voice and get to associate you with the arrival of food and goodies.
 
I have a 6 year old and a 3 year old who will still dive for cover if startled.
Sometimes I think they startle themselves as there’s no apparent reason for the behaviour.
I keep telling them that I’m a vegetarian so they’re perfectly safe!
 
I saw a joke about this. Something like if there's a noise a dog will go and investigate, a cat will lift it's head for a second and go back to sleep - Guinea pigs will run for cover screaming 'it's a bomb, it's a bomb!'. It's just their instincts to run and hide. Sit by the cage and talk softly to them, give them treats etc. and over time they'll get used to you. The only noises that don't seem to have this effect are fridge doors opening and bags rustling. :D
 
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