The Secrets Behind The Guinea Pig Language

Guinea pigs are chatty little pets, and once you have a solid grasp of the language of guinea pigs, then you will know when and where to touch them, when they are hungry, feeling afraid, or just enjoying themselves.  

WHEEKING may be interpreted as a type of begging, and is heard mostly around feeding time.  This sound is associated with the excitement and anticipation of food coming soon, whether it’s the sound of chopping fresh vegetables, the rustling of some Timothy Hay or some other noise that they associate with food or an edible treat.  If food is not the answer, this noise may also mean that they would like their cage cleaned.

PURRING is a sound similar to a cat, and it is associated with contentment and happiness.

HIGH PITCH PURR is no longer a sound associated with pleasure, as this high pitch tone (along with a tensed body posture) is a sure bet that your guinea pig is annoyed about something.

RUMBLING or a low pitched purr may signify dominance within a group of guinea pigs, but more often than not, this is a sound that communicates fear (especially when their tiny bodies shudder).  This is one of the sounds that have an entirely different meaning when the male is “dancing” or using the “rumble strut”, because this sound in combination with these types of movements are used to romance the female guinea pig.

SHRIEKING signifies pain or immediate danger, and it is advised that you see what is troubling your piggy immediately. This is also noted to be a warning to other guinea pigs in the general area that there may be danger lurking nearby.

WHINING is a sound of displeasure and complaint.  For example, if one guinea pig wants to play and the other is sleeping, the resting guinea pig may whine in annoyance.  

TEETH CHATTERING is a very clear communication that your guinea pig is angry and agitated about something.  If this noise is accompanied with stomping of their feet and their body rocking back and forth, separate them immediately, before a physical fight breaks out, as one little piggy may get hurt.  Toss a cloth over the pigs to disorient them and then separate.

Guinea pigs also communicate via body language and other behavioural characteristics, for example:

1. A guinea pig may remain in a still/frozen position if they are uncertain about a situation.
2. Using their nose to sniff out and become familiar with an area is something that guinea pigs do often.  In addition, they touch noses to display affection, and to greet another guinea pig.
3. Guinea pigs will “mark” something by rubbing their cheeks and chins on an item that they choose to be their own.
4. Your guinea pig may lick you out of affection or perhaps just because they enjoy the taste of your skin.
5. If your pig tosses their head up, they are trying to communicate their annoyance of being petted, and are politely asking you to stop.

Guinea pigs try to communicate very well with each other and their human friends; with a little patience and attention it is easy to have a wonderful relationship with your pet piggy.

If you’d like more information about caring for your guinea pig then please visit the Burgess Excel website - http://www.burgesspetcare.co.uk/excelfeedingplan/

Guinea Pigs: The Tiny Creatures With Huge Personalities

There is much confusion over the origin of the name guinea pig. They are not related to pigs and they don't come from Guinea. The term guinea pig was created before the guinea coin was invented, so it doesn't relate to their cost either! Their popularity as a pet in the United Kingdom has increased over the years. They are sometimes referred to as “creatures of habit”, because they like routine and tend to stick to those that they are accustomed to. If you get them used to a particular diet, then change it, they may refuse to adapt to the new diet. When they feel that there is danger approaching, they remain still, making no movement whatsoever. When they are in a jovial mood, they tend to be jumpy and very active. Excitement also makes them stand on their hind legs. They have a very cute squeak. Keep your guinea pig happy and you should hear plenty of this.

Guinea pigs, like rabbits, have teeth that never stop growing, and this is the reason they gnaw, to prevent overgrowth. They feed on hay, vegetables, fruits, and pellets. They require a diet that is high in fibre. Their digestive system is quite similar to that of a rabbit, where fibre is required for the movement of food in the system to be smooth, but they also have different dietary requirements, so it's not a good idea to feed rabbit food to guinea pigs. You should always buy a purpose made guinea pig food. It is important that your guinea pig food contains vitamin C. There are various types of hay available that can be used to feed to your guinea pig but Timothy hay is the most recommended. This is because unlike other types of hay, it contains a high calcium and fibre content, has a pleasant smell and its stalks give guinea pigs something to gnaw on. It is also readily available and shouldn't be too costly. These creatures are known to get bored easily; therefore giving them plenty of hay gives them something to keep them busy.  It is important to ensure that the hay is fresh and of high quality. Storing the hay in a dry, clean place is important because moisture will destroy its nutritional value and also the taste. Water is very important as it is always good to keep your pet hydrated. It should be clean and fresh so make sure you change it on a daily basis. Maintaining the cleanliness of your pet’s cage is paramount. This is because a dirty cage exposes the pet to diseases and it may also become depressed. 

Guinea pigs do not like being in an isolated place, and if they do not have company, they can fall into a depression. For this reason, you should find them toys to play with, or get them a fellow pet. It is also important that you spend time with them. This will help them to feel confident with you, making them tamer and therefore more rewarding. It is quite interesting how they mark their territory: they brush their chins, cheeks and backside on their surrounding items. Have fun with your guinea pig!

For more information about caring for your guinea pig then please visit the Excel Feeding Plan -http://www.burgesspetcare.co.uk/excelfeedingplan/looking-after-your-fibrevore/guinea-pig.html