Why Won't My Female Guinea Pigs Get Along?

[Rachbug8901]

Back last August of 2016, I adopted a female guinea pig, Artemis. Then in March 2017, I adopted a second female, Diana. I found out a month later that Diana was pregnant when I adopted her, and she gave birth to two healthy baby girls in May. Diana and Artemis have never gotten along. We've tried many things but with no results other than ripped out fur. Why won't they get along?

 

[Mother Hubbard]

There can be a number of factors.

guinea pigs can be like humans, its not always guaranteed that they will get on and its important bonding rules are followed correctly to ensure a smooth 'hello, how are you situation'.

Age can be a factor.

But often the issue is the size of their environment. If you purchased a cage or hutch etc for the size suitable for 2 females, it's likely it won't be acceptable for 4 ladies.

If the fights have escalated to full scale fighting, and when you've seen it, you will know as it can be quite scary with wounds etc, then the relationship has failed and they need separating.

What size set up have you got?

 

[Louise's Zoo]

The same thing has happened to 2 of my girls. They lived together fine when I got them but one was pregnant. I had to separate them after she gave birth and now I can't get them back together again as they just fight. It's such a shame

 

[Rachbug8901]

There can be a number of factors.

guinea pigs can be like humans, its not always guaranteed that they will get on and its important bonding rules are followed correctly to ensure a smooth 'hello, how are you situation'.

Age can be a factor.

But often the issue is the size of their environment. If you purchased a cage or hutch etc for the size suitable for 2 females, it's likely it won't be acceptable for 4 ladies.

If the fights have escalated to full scale fighting, and when you've seen it, you will know as it can be quite scary with wounds etc, then the relationship has failed and they need separating.

What size set up have you got?

I have two cages. One with enough room for three, and that's what we have the family in. The second has enough room for two, and that's where Artemis is in.

 

[Mother Hubbard]

awww bless, clear the dynamics have changed with the birth of the pups and sometimes yes it just happens that way. Your mother piggy is going to protect her pups and as they get older, they will challenge mum too, it's just natural for them to find the top position really, no different to a wolf pack.

It's probably worth getting a friend for Artemis.