Double the Fun: Why Two Guinea Pigs Are Better Than One

When it comes to guinea pigs, two is always better than one.

In the wild, guinea pigs – or cavies – live in happy little families, usually consisting of one male, several females, and their offspring. Because they are prey animals, living in herds helps protect them from predators.

Those wild instincts carry over to the adorable guinea pigs that we all love. They are still highly social animals – which is why two guinea pigs is better than one.

Why Two Guinea Pigs Are Better

• They are happier. Single guinea pigs get lonely, and sometimes even anxious or depressed. Having two guinea pigs gives them someone to play with, talk to, and provide comfort.
• They are healthier. Guinea pigs will play with each other, which means they get more exercise and become less anxious. Guinea pigs also love to groom each other, which not only helps them stay cleaner in hard-to-reach areas, it provides comfort and sooths their sweet little souls.
• They exhibit natural behaviors. Two guinea pigs are more fun to watch as they interact with each other. They’ll chatter, play, chase each other, popcorn, and snuggle – showing you their true precious little personalities.
• They may actually be less work. The additional cost and effort involved in caring for two guinea pigs is minimal – same bedding, food, and toys – and they will require less attention from you. They will need a little bit more space – at least 10 square feet (preferably a little more for two males).

When looking for two guinea pigs, consider researching guinea pig rescues who have bonded pairs needing a new loving home.

The Best Guinea Pig Pairings

• Two female guinea pigs usually get along well. This is generally the easiest pairing.
• Two male guinea pigs can work, but they may fight. If the males were not raised together, it’s best to slowly introduce them to each other in neutral territory. It’s also important to provide enough space (ideally at least 13 square feet). Even male siblings may fight from time to time if they are unneutered. 
• Male and females work well together if the male is neutered. Otherwise, you are almost guaranteed to have babies.

Introducing New Guinea Pigs to Each Other

If you are getting two male guinea pigs who have not been around each other, or you’re introducing a new pig to a bonded pair, you may want to do it slowly. Here are some important steps to follow:

• Keep Them Separated at First: Keep the guinea pigs in separate cages – or use a cage divider – for the first several days. Keep the cages next to each other so your guinea pigs will see, hear, and smell each other, helping them get used to each other without being able to hurt one another.
• Swap Scents: Exchange bedding and toys in each cage will help them become even more familiar with each other’s scents.
• Introduce in Neutral Territory. Use a large, clean, neutral space – like a playpen or a bathtub – to introduce your guinea pigs. Make sure you watch them closely. Watch for positive signs like squeaking, sniffing, following each other, and popcorning (i.e., happy jumps).

If you see signs of aggression, immediately separate your guinea pigs, then try again later. You may have to repeat the above steps for several days or even weeks.

What if I can only get one guinea pig?

If for some reason you can only have one guinea pig, you’ll need to provide a lot of extra attention and enrichment to prevent loneliness. This requires daily effort and lots of interaction:

• Place your guinea pig’s cage in an active area of your home where they won’t feel isolated.
• Spend time playing, talking to, and interacting with your guinea pig.
• Include floor time, i.e., letting your piggy run around on the floor.
• Provide plenty of mental stimulation -- toys, tunnels, and hideaways.

Two are Better Than One

No matter how much love you give your guinea pig, having two is better. We humans just can’t replace that natural interaction they have with their fellow cavies.

Keeping two guinea pigs does not cost much more and actually will save you time and energy. It’s better for their health, happiness, and overall well-being.

A bonded pair will thrive together and still have plenty of licks and cuddles left for you.

We are not veterinarians, and none of our information should be construed as veterinary advice.

Before adding any new product, please consult your exotic veterinarian. If your pet is acting unwell and you have concerns for their well being, please contact your vet immediately.