Guinea pigs thrive in social situations. Although they don’t NEED to be held every day, holding them daily does help them feel secure and loved. If you do not hold your guinea pig every day, they may become depressed or anxious.
However, it’s important to remember that all guinea pigs are different. Some would be content sitting in your lap for hours, while others prefer to be left alone. Ultimately, it depends on your guinea pig’s individual personality.
If you do choose to hold your guinea pig, it’s important to do so correctly. Always support their back end and never pick them up by their front legs. Guinea pigs have delicate bones and can easily be injured if they’re not handled properly.
In general, it’s best to let your guinea pig approach you when they’re ready to be held. This way, they won’t feel like they’re being forced into it. If you have a young guinea pig who is still getting used to being handled, start by offering them treats while you’re holding them. This will help them associate being held with something positive.
What You'll Learn
How Often Should Guinea Pigs Be Held?
If possible, guinea pigs should be held every day. If you can’t hold them every day, try to at least hold them a few times a week. The more you handle them, the more comfortable they’ll become with being picked up and held. Just be sure to always support their hind end so they don’t feel like they’re going to fall.
What Are The Benefits Of Holding A Guinea Pig?
There are many benefits to holding a guinea pig.
Builds a Bond and Releases Stress
It helps build the bond between you and your pet. Additionally, it can help socialize your guinea pig if you hold them regularly. Guinea pigs that are held often tend to be more relaxed and less stressed than those that are not held as frequently.
You Can Do a Quick Health Inspection
Another benefit of holding your guinea pig is that it gives you the opportunity to check them for any health problems. By being able to closely examine your pet, you can more easily spot any potential issues and get them treated right away. This is especially important for older guinea pigs, who may be more susceptible to health problems.
It’s Fun!
Holding your guinea pig is simply a lot of fun! They are incredibly cute and soft, and it’s impossible not to smile when you’re holding one. So go ahead and pick up your guinea pig today – they’ll love the attention and you’ll enjoy the bonding experience.
How Do You Hold A Guinea Pig Properly?
Guinea pigs are small, fragile animals that require proper handling. Here are some tips on how to hold a guinea pig correctly:
- Place one hand behind the guinea pig’s front legs and the other hand under its bottom.
- Lift the guinea pig gently and support its body with your hands.
- Hold the guinea pig close to your body so that it feels secure.
- Avoid holding the guinea pig by its tail as this can cause injury.
- If you need to put the guinea pig down, do so carefully and slowly so that it doesn’t feel scared or threatened.
What Should You Do If Your Guinea Pig Doesn’t Like Being Held?
If your guinea pig doesn’t enjoy being held, there are a few things you can do to make the experience more pleasant for both of you.
Keep The Sessions Short
First, try to hold your guinea pig for short periods of time at first. This will help your guinea pig get used to the idea of being held without feeling overwhelmed.
Offer a Treat
You can also try offering your guinea pig a treat while you’re holding it, such as a piece of hay or a small amount of pellets. This will help your guinea pig associate being held with something positive.
Hold Them Correctly
Make sure you’re holding your guinea pig correctly. Avoid putting too much pressure on its body and be careful not to grip its fur too tightly.
If you follow these tips, chances are your guinea pig will start to enjoy being held in no time! It’s best if you can hold your guinea pigs every day to keep them healthy and happy. Although they may not seem like the cuddliest of animals, they actually enjoy being held and will often seek out contact with their owners.
