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How to Hold a Guinea Pig Correctly

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Adopting a new guinea pig is a thrilling experience. These small critters are adorable and full of character.  The majority of new guinea pig owners are eager to hold and cuddle their new pet.

On the other hand, this can turn out to be more difficult than you initially thought it would be.  After all, guinea pigs are on the smaller side, yet they have a remarkable amount of speed for their size.

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Don’t Try to Hold Your Guinea Pig at First

While you may be overjoyed after adopting your guinea pig, you should give them some space for a few days.  Many people are overwhelmed by the new sounds and scents of relocating.

After a few days, you can begin to acquaint your guinea pig with you. You should not necessarily release them from their cage at this time.  However, you can start placing your hand in their cage and possibly hand-feeding them.

Introduce Yourself

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Your guinea pig will almost certainly try to avoid being picked up. Because they are in a cage, it is quite simple to trap them in the corner and sweep them up.  You can also utilize toys in the cage to distract the guinea pig long enough for you to pick him up.

Pick Up Your Guinea Pig

Hold the guinea pig with two hands towards your chest after removing it from the cage.  This will make them feel safe, and your chest will be beneath them to prevent potential jumps.

Hold Your Guinea Pig with Two Hands

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Provide Treats

While you're holding your guinea pigs, you should give them some treats.  This makes them associate being held with nice things, making them more receptive of the practice. Make certain that only safe meals are fed.

When you place your guinea pig back in their cage after the holding period, you should hold them firmly.  Some guinea pigs become very enthusiastic when they see their cage and may jump.

Return the Guinea Pig Safely to Their Cage

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Keep the Session Short

You should keep the session brief, particularly at beginning. You don't want to stress out your guinea pig since it will make them not want to be touched again.  You should, however, hold them frequently. Daily sessions will allow them to get more comfortable with you over time.

Supervise Children

When youngsters are holding guinea pigs, they should always be supervised.  Children do not usually know how to properly hold guinea pigs, which can result in catastrophic injury.  While holding the guinea pig, children should always sit.

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