Picking Up Your Guinea Pig

Your guinea pig is sturdy but can be injured if you pick him up improperly. He could even die if you drop him. Ensure that your guinea pig is comfortable with you by sitting by his enclosure as you speak or sing softly to him. Drape your hand in the enclosure to explore and try to hand feed him. When you are ready to pick up your guinea pig, act efficiently. Place one hand under your pig’s chest just behind the front legs. Use the other hand to scoop up his rear end. As you clear the enclosure, pull your guinea pig close to your chest so he doesn’t wriggle away. Be prepared to put your pig down on a safe surface rather than drop him. Never pick up your guinea pig by a leg or the scruff of the neck. Contact your animal hospital Glen Ellyn, IL to learn more.