The Importance of Keeping More Than One Guinea Pig
Why Solitary Housing Can Harm Their Health and Well-Being
Guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) are highly social animals that thrive in the company of their own kind. Despite their popularity as beginner pets, guinea pigs are often housed alone, which can lead to stress, loneliness, and a decline in overall health. Leading animal welfare organizations and veterinary experts strongly advise keeping guinea pigs in compatible pairs or small groups.
This article explains why guinea pigs should not be kept alone and provides evidence-based recommendations for proper social housing.
Social Behavior in Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs evolved as prey animals living in small herds. In the wild, their survival depends on communication, cooperation, and social bonding. These natural behaviors persist in domestic guinea pigs today, making companionship essential to their psychological and physical well-being.
“Guinea pigs are social animals and should not be kept alone. They require the company of at least one other guinea pig to express normal behaviour.”
— RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), UK [1]
Risks of Solitary Housing
When kept alone, guinea pigs often show signs of distress, including:
- Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels
- Reduced activity, appetite, and engagement
- Stereotypic behaviors such as bar chewing or pacing
- Increased risk of illness due to a weakened immune system
Studies have shown that guinea pigs housed in pairs have lower stress hormone levels and more consistent behavioral patterns than those housed alone.
“Social isolation in guinea pigs results in behavioral and physiological changes indicative of poor welfare.”
— McMillan FD, Mental Health and Well-Being in Animals [2]
Why Human Interaction Isn’t Enough
Although human interaction is valuable, it does not replace the role of a fellow guinea pig. Humans cannot groom, communicate, or provide constant companionship in the way another guinea pig can.
“People are not a substitute for a guinea pig’s own species. They need each other for communication, comfort, and security.”
— Humane Society International [3]
Recommended Housing Practices
To meet their social needs while avoiding conflict or breeding, consider the following best practices:
- Pair same-sex guinea pigs or a neutered male with a female.
- Introduce unfamiliar guinea pigs slowly and in neutral territory.
- Ensure sufficient cage space, food bowls, and hideouts.
“Guinea pigs should be kept in social groups of two or more unless a vet advises otherwise.”
— American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) [4]
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Several countries have formalized these welfare principles. For example, Switzerland has banned the keeping of solitary guinea pigs, recognizing that isolation causes distress and suffering.
“In Switzerland, it is illegal to own only one guinea pig. These animals must be kept with companions.”
— Swiss Animal Protection Act [5]
The Important Conclusion
Guinea pigs are herd animals by nature. Their health, behavior, and quality of life improve significantly when they are kept with at least one compatible companion. Solitary housing can lead to unnecessary suffering and is widely discouraged by experts in animal welfare and veterinary science.
Prospective and current guinea pig owners are strongly encouraged to adopt in pairs or groups, and to prioritize their social needs as part of responsible care.
References
[1]</a> RSPCA. “Guinea Pigs as Pets – Social Needs.” https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs
[2]</a> McMillan, F.D. (2005). Mental Health and Well-Being in Animals. Blackwell Publishing.
[3]</a> Humane Society International. “Guinea Pig Care Guide.” https://www.hsi.org/news-media/guinea-pig-care/
[4]</a> American Veterinary Medical Association. “Guidelines for the Humane Housing of Guinea Pigs.” https://www.avma.org/resources-tools
[5]</a> Swiss Animal Protection Act, Animal Welfare Ordinance. https://www.fedlex.admin.ch