Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male
I have three Guinea Pigs and all they do is eat and stay still afterwards. I hardly notice them drinking from their bottle or water bowl. They are also afraid to interact during floor time, as well as to human touch. They also dislike playing and being cuddled or petted. They always scurry away and huddle to a corner around me. What do I do to improve this behavior and have some time to bond with my piggies?
2 Answers
Published on December 17th, 2017
Hello, and congratulations on your new guinea pigs! Guinea pigs can become very social with humans but it can take some time if they have not had much interactions with humans before. Try to very gradually get them used to you by offering them something tasty such as fresh vegetables, fruits, and commercial treats from your hand. Eventually, they will start to associate your presence with treats, and will be more willing to come out to play. While they are eating a treat from your hand, you can try to gently pet them on the top of their head. Talk to your guinea pigs regularly so they get used to your voice, and ideally put their cage in a room where you are often in, so they get used to your presence as well. They can also learn their names if you use them often enough! Don't try to pick up/hold your guinea pigs until they have some comfort with taking a treat from your hand and putting their front paws on your hand. When you do try to pick them up, hold them snug but not too tight, and always support their bum to avoid falling. I hope this helps! Enjoy your little guys. They are great pets!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Published on October 18th, 2018
Thanks for your question, and congratulations on your new pet. Guinea pigs are shy by nature, and it often takes a while for them to warm up to their caretakers. This is especially true if they arealone rather than kept with a cagemate. I didn’t see how long you have had your guinea pig or if it was kept alone, but I would advise to use patience and positive reinforcement training. Whenever you approach your guinea pig’s cage, you can bring something tasty, such as greens or Oxbow treats. This will help your guinea pig to associate you with good things. Over time, it will get more and more comfortable with you and you can start to approach closer and closer. I hope that gives you a place to start, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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