Where Do I Go From Here?

[piglet_and_rogers_mama]

I don't know what to do with my two remaining boys. Piglet and George do not like each other in person, but they snuggle between the divider? Is there any chance of a rebond? Because I can't get 2 more, at least not while I'm living at home, my dad would be livid. Worse case scenario I will just divide the cage in equal parts, but since theres so much room, do you think it's possible that they might get along now? I'm still heartbroken. I just wish I could know that they could be happy together. Any advice would be much needed. I miss him so much.

 

[LisaAli]

How old are your two boys?

They are still getting interaction with each other although through the bars. We have two girls who are exactly the same - will snuggle each other through the C & C grids but will not tolerate each other in the same space, as both are very dominant. It may be possible if your two boys are relatively young and going through a hormonal stage that in the future they might become more tolerant and laid back with each other. It's a relatively good sign that they still snuggle together although through the divider so give them time and see how things progress before considering a reintroduction. Sometimes time can be a great healer and providing there wasn't bloodshed between them then there is a small possibility that they may become cagemates once again. Slowly, slowly is the way to go.

Lisa & Ali..

 

[Wiebke]

HUGS!

It is always a very difficult time, but at least you know that they will get on well as neighbours with their own territory each, so that is a very good base to start out from. It means that they won't be unhappy even if they can't live together.

You can try a formal intro on neutral ground with all the trimmings if they pass the first test, a joint cuddle on your lap (ove glove at the ready), but I would give your boys time to grieve first. Whether they will get on together is something that nobody can predict. It is more likely that you get them to share run time on neutral territory at the best rather than full cohabiting. Just don't get your hopes up too high and then you won't be disappointed!
https://www.theguineapigforum.co.uk/threads/faq-introducing-and-re-introducing-guinea-pigs.38562/
https://www.theguineapigforum.co.uk/threads/dominance-behaviours-in-guinea-pigs.28949/

 

[piglet_and_rogers_mama]

They are both about 4 years old, so past the hormonal stage. Thank you for the links, I'll have a read and see if there's anything I can do. I think they're both grieving, so i'll give it a few days to calm down. I won't hold my breath, but it would be a relief if they could get along.

 

[piglet_and_rogers_mama]

Divided up the cage equally. Poor George won't leave the pigloo Roger slept in all the time. Breaks my heart.
I've tried to help thing along by putting hay on either side of their divider so they can eat together, maybe forge some kind of piggy friendship. It is all so surreal. In a way I guess I never thought this would happen...he was seemingly healthy for so long; but I guess it just goes to show you how well guinea pigs hide their illnesses. If this taught me anything, it's pay even closer attention than I was. I wish I could have noticed sooner.
Coulda...woulda...shoulda...