How do my Guinea pigs communicate?
Guinea pigs are vocal communicators and will express themselves through different noises. It is hard to understand what your Guinea pig is trying to tell you; a lot of the vocalisations can sound the same even though they mean different things. Its important to spend time with your pigs and look at their body language to figure out what they are trying to tell you.
Guinea pigs are PREY animals, they are naturally cautious of their environment, and it takes a lot of work to help them settle and feel safe.
Guinea pigs don’t always like being handled or being handled for to long, listening to what your Guinea pig is saying can help you to build your bond and make your Guinea pig feel comfortable.
What are some Guinea pig noises to look out for?
Wheeking– This is a common sound Guinea pigs make when they are enjoying something, a lot of people will hear this sound when they rustle the food bag. This sounds like a high-pitched whistle or a squeal.
Chutting– This is a general background noise which Guinea pigs will make when they are happy going about their day-to-day routine or talking to each other. This sounds like a frog croak or a soft clucking sound. This can be a ‘I’m happy and content’ sound.
Rumbling– This is a deep sound which is used when a female is in season, this is made by the males to try and attract a female, this is very close to the purring sound but deeper and will sound like a motorboat.
Teeth chattering– This sound is a warning that your Guinea pigs is not happy, most people think that this means their piggie is cold, but this is your pet telling you to back off and they aren’t comfortable. This is a common sound when over handling or sometimes to other Guinea pigs when they are bonding.
Hissing– This is an angry sound meaning your Guinea pig isn’t happy and feels threatened. By making this sound the Guinea pig hopes to warn off unwanted attention and to be left alone.
These are just some of the common sounds Guinea pigs make, there are many more vocalisations for different situations. Knowing what your Guinea pigs sounds mean is important, however you also need to read the situation they are in and look at their body language.
Don’t forget!
Guinea pigs are social animals and will need a friend or to be a part of a herd. They are likely to be more nervous being on their own and will benefit from the support and interactions of other pigs.
