Why Does My Guinea Pig Go On My Shoulder? 6 Facts You Should Know!

Guinea pigs are popular, gentle pets. Owners often notice them nestling into their lap, neck or hair.

One behavior that puzzles new owners is a guinea pig climbing up to their shoulder. What does it mean?

A guinea pig that settles on your shoulder is usually relaxed and comfortable with you. It may also be looking for a snug, hidden spot near your neck or hair. Not every guinea pig does this, since each one has its own personality.

Is It Good For Your Guinea Pig To Go On Your Shoulder?

Guinea pigs are social animals that need company, ideally of other guinea pigs as well as people. Calm time together helps build trust.

A guinea pig on your shoulder can be a nice bonding moment, but safety comes first. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that guinea pigs do not climb readily and rarely jump, so they have poor balance up high.

A fall from shoulder height can cause serious injuries. Sit down while your guinea pig is on you, keep a hand on it, and support its body and hindquarters.

How To Make Your Guinea Pig Go On Your Shoulder?

You can't make a guinea pig like your shoulder, but you can help it feel safe with you.

At first, your guinea pig may hide from you. Guinea pigs are prey animals, so a large human reaching in from above can feel like a predator.

Never force your guinea pig into new situations. Merck notes that guinea pigs often won't explore if they feel unsafe, and they handle changes best when they are slow and consistent.

To build trust, try these steps:

• Feeding your guinea pig at the same times each day
• Respecting your guinea pig's space
• Talking with your guinea pig every day
• Sitting next to the cage of your pet guinea pig
• Avoiding loud noises
• Hand feed your guinea pig

Once your guinea pig seems relaxed, you can hold it on your lap while sitting down. Even a confident guinea pig may never choose your shoulder, and that is normal.

How Often Should Your Guinea Pig Go On Your Shoulder?

There is no right answer. It depends on your guinea pig. Some are bolder and like to snuggle up high, while shy ones prefer a lap or a hidey house.

Will Guinea Pigs Go To The Shoulder Of A Stranger?

A nervous guinea pig is less likely to settle with someone it doesn't know. A calm, well-handled guinea pig may be comfortable with other gentle people, too.

Other Signs That Your Guinea Pig Loves You

Aside from going on your shoulder, there are other signs that your guinea pig is comfortable with you.

First, it comes to the front of the cage or follows you. Scared guinea pigs hide or freeze instead.

Second, it doesn't try to nip you when you approach or pick it up.

Third, it relaxes on you. It may lie down on your lap or chest instead of trying to get away.

Fourth, it responds to your voice. Many guinea pigs learn to "wheek" when they hear a familiar voice or the fridge door. Talk gently while you feed, clean and handle your guinea pig.

Fifth, it lets you stroke or hold it calmly. Guinea pigs are naturally timid, so calm handling is a sign of trust.

Lastly, it popcorns. Merck describes bouncing repeatedly, called popcorning, as a sign of excitement.

How To Know If Your Guinea Pig Hates You?

Guinea pigs don't hate people, but they do show when they are scared or annoyed. Signs include freezing, running to hide, tossing the head up, chattering the teeth, and nipping.

If you see these signs, slow down, give your guinea pig space and try again later.

Final Verdict

A guinea pig on your shoulder is usually a relaxed guinea pig that trusts you. Build that trust with calm handling, routine and treats.

Always sit down and support your guinea pig, because a fall from your shoulder can injure it.

Source: blog.omlet.us

Sources

• Anatomy, Physiology, and Behavior of Guinea Pigs, Merck Veterinary Manual