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How do I safely introduce a new guinea pig to my current one?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | 5 lbs

Hi can my guinea pig have a new guinea pig in her cage right away or do they need to get along and like each other first

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 31st, 2017

It would probably be best and more successful if you slowly introduced the two guinea pigs to each other.

I would start by placing them in separate cages but writhin view of each other. Then slowly move the cages closer together over a few days until they are next to each other. Once the guinea pigs do ok being in close proximity you can put them in the same cage for a short amount of time, under your supervision. Do this multiple times a day for a week or so and once they seem comfortable you can start keeping them in the same cage.

I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Veterinarian
Published on October 1st, 2017
I think at least for a few days until you figure out if they get along, this setup is ok. Long term, it'd be great if both pigs had a larger area at least to play in, like a playpen or other kind of pig-proofed room in your house. Have fun!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on January 31st, 2017
You can remove the divider and introduce them to each other for a few minutes. Monitor closely for signs of aggression. The next day, allow them to be together for a bit longer. Continue to allow them to be together for longer periods of time until you are sure they can get along. Confirm they are both the same sex, otherwise you may find yourself with baby guinea pigs.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on June 8th, 2018
If you obtain a young guinea pig and socialize with it daily then it will likely be more social. I would hesitate putting it in with the other two until they have spent a lot of time together , under supervision, with good success. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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