When is the right time for a new cage mate?

[KorgMiekBarneyRalph]

Hi there,

We lost our 2-year-old boy to bladder stones 5 days ago.

Our remaining piggy is still eating and drinking well, but he’s definitely not himself. He’s been lying down a lot in the exact spot where our late boy used to chill out.

We’re eager to get him a friend, but we’re not sure when the time will be right.

This is our first loss as piggy parents - and I have to say, it’s been absolute agony for both of us.

Any insights would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks!

I’ve attached a photo of both the boys.

Meik is on the left, who has sadly passed, and Korg is on the right - doing what he does best!

 

[DavRz]

Someone alot more informed than I , I'm sure will be here soon to answer your question..but I wanted to say I'm very sorry you lost your very handsome boy...RIP Meik

 

[KorgMiekBarneyRalph]

Someone alot more informed than I , I'm sure will be here soon to answer your question..I just wanted to say I'm very sorry you lost your very handsome boy...RIP Meik

Thank you very much, DavRz! It's not the same without his mischief and nonsense!

 

[flowerfairy]

He did look rather wonderful. Sorry for your loss.

If it were me I would start asking local rescues about single boars and boar dating now. It has to feel right to you and for your remaining guinea pig. Korg does look rather contented in amongst all that lovely hay.

You know Korg best. It sounds like he is processing the death of his friend. What is your feeling?

 

[Wiebke]

Hi

I am so very sorry for your loss.

You can look for a new friend for Korg anytime now. You have given him time to grieve for his friend but as the smell is fading away, you and Korg is visibly affected (if still eating), then he is ready for new company. If you have other piggies (whatever the gender), place his cage next to theirs for stimulation and companionship as a single boar has nobody to fall out with... Just as long as he cannot get into the other cage.

We recommend as the ideal time to look for new company from about 1-4 weeks after a passing but if you have to wait for a special companion or a post-neutering safety wait, then a little longer is worth the price in a view of hopefully long term happiness.

If you cannot rescue date a new piggy (not easy in Scotland unless you can get down to Ayr Guinea Pig Rescue), then you best have a plan B at the ready; i.e. a divided cage so each piggy has their own territory but still the needed species full body interaction through the divider.

You can find more information in this link here: Looking After a Bereaved Guinea Pig

 

[Merab]

So sorry that you lost your beloved boy.
Be gentle with yourself as you grieve.