Socialisation

Cavies are herd animals and should never be alone. They work best in same-sex pairs, though a male and female or multiple sows to one boar works well too. If you don’t intend to breed, try to only get one gender. I don’t condone neutering as there are multiple risks for both male and female cavies and they often die under aesthetic. There is no real reason to neuter a cavy. They are easy to separate and keep apart, and same sex pairs make wonderful friends. If you already have different genders, you can keep them next to one another with a grid wall so they can touch and interact but not mate. The male will commonly chew on the bars in an attempt to get through, so be sure the grid is strong and not coated in toxic plastic or made of thin wire.

Helping cavies bond: There are many ways to make sure your cavies get to know each other and establish bonds. Some of the best ways are bathing them together (pop two or more cavies in shallow, warm water – if using soap be sure it is cavy safe pet shampoo) and watch them interact. Placing food and entertainment around the hutch is a good distraction. Cavies will like each other more if they are enjoying themselves together. A tunnel is a good place for one cavy to hide if the other is giving him trouble. Usually after a few weeks, any cavies should get along (if they aren’t two bred boars.) Note: Cavies and rabbits shouldn’t be housed together. Some get on fine, but a full grown rabbit has very powerful legs and may accidentally kill a cavy with a warning kick. Tiny rabbits and full size cavies can be paired, but I don’t personally suggest it.