As a guinea pig lover, you want the best for your furry friends – and knowing when to start handling baby guinea pigs is one of the important things to consider. Touching and holding newborns can be very beneficial for helping them grow into happy, confident pets.
But it’s not as straightforward as with other animals, as there are some special considerations you need to make. In this blog post, we’re exploring exactly how long after birth you should wait before touching your cuddly little guinea pig babies!
Keep reading to learn more about making sure they get off on the right foot from day one!
When can I touch my newborn guinea pig?
When deciding to bring a new guinea pig into your life, one of the questions people often ask is when can I touch my newborn guinea pig? The answer to this question depends on two main factors.
Primarily, you should always consult with a vet before touching your newborn guinea pig to ensure the process is safe for both you and the animal. Secondly, wait until the guinea pig is several weeks old before starting to handle it as younger pups are more fragile; wait until they have had a few days outside of their mother’s care and gained some strength first.
Once you get the go-ahead from a vet and your little critter is ready, handling time can be a great way to help bond with your new furry friend. Just remember that patience goes a long way; although you may be eager to start cuddling your new pet right away, taking extra caution early on ensures greater safety and comfort for everyone involved in the long run!
Can you hold baby guinea pigs after birth?
Baby guinea pigs are incredibly adorable, so it’s no surprise that many people would like to hold them after they’re born! The truth is, however, that guinea pigs of any age tend to be quite skittish and can become stressed out easily if overly handled.
As a dedicated guinea pig guardian, you’ll want to avoid making your newest family members anxious by waiting at least three weeks after birth before you attempt to pick one up. This gives the little guys enough time to get used to their environment and feel more secure in the knowledge that they’re safe and protected.
Taking things slow when handling these bundles of joy is key; not only will it keep everyone healthy and happy, but it’s also one of the best ways to foster a strong bond with your pet.
What happens if you pick up a newborn guinea pig?
Picking up a newborn guinea pig can be an exciting experience – but it’s also one that you should approach with caution. During the first three weeks of life, baby cavies are delicate and need to stay warm and dry, so it’s important to only handle them with gentle hands if necessary.
It is advised that mothers should be left undisturbed for the first few weeks, so always make sure to check on her before interacting with her young. Try to avoid handling babies as much as possible until they have grown and matured a bit more, usually after 8 weeks old.
Newborn guineas will generally enjoy being snuggled and gently cuddled when picked up for bonding time; being aware of their fragile nature is key to making sure the process is safe and enjoyable!
How long should I wait to hold my new guinea pig?
Bringing home your new guinea pig can be an exciting experience that you’ll want to share, but it’s important to first take some time to give your new companion space and get used to their new home.
For the first few days or a week, focus on creating a warm, safe environment for them — set up the cage and make sure it’s secure with toys and hiding places, have hay and pellets available in separate dishes, set up all of their bedding and water bottles, and be sure to measure the temperature at least once a day.
Once they feel settled in, slowly introduce yourself by patting around their cage before eventually picking them up. This will help create a positive bond between you two as you move into becoming best friends!
How often should you handle a baby guinea pig?
Handling your baby guinea pig should be a regular part of your routine, but never more than once per day. It’s important to get them used to being handled and socialized so they can grow into their full-fledged guinea pig personalities.
However, it is important not to overdo it with handling; too much handling in the early days of their life may cause them anxiety and stress. They will let you know when they need a break by making squeaking noises or thrashing about when being held.
Additionally, if you handle them for extended periods without providing chances for rest, your guinea pig may become ill and needs a break from being petted and cuddled excessively. Therefore, the best practice would be to handle the little guy daily but take breaks throughout those sessions, allowing them plenty of time to explore on their own as well.
As a result
Touching a baby guinea pig is an incredibly rewarding and bonding experience. While some may be more fragile than older guinea pigs, with the right precautions and handling, you can feel close to your little one in no time.
For the best chance of success, you should wait until it’s at least two weeks old before attempting to touch or handle it. With patience and care, you can cuddle with your pet guinea pig and give them plenty of love throughout its life.
Finding the right vet who can provide an annual health check is essential to ensure you and your loved one stay safe and healthy!
Thanks for joining us on this journey into baby guinea pig behavior; we hope that now you feel a little bit more knowledgeable and confident when it comes to knowing when you can safely start interacting with your newest family member!
