This is possibly one of the most asked questions when it comes to getting new guinea pigs and rabbits. This question doesn't have a simple answer. Basically it depends on the individual rabbits and piggies in question.
As with people, there are unsocial rabbits and piggies, so there is no guarantee that your chosen rabbit and cavy will get on well together.
As a rule, owners tend to say 'no' to keeping these two animals in the same hutch together for a number of reasons:
1) The rabbit (or guinea pig in come cases!) may show dominating behavior over the other.
2) In the wild they would not live together, as they originate from different countries.
3) They can't eat the same dried food or pellets - guinea pigs need food that has extra Vitamin C in it as they are prone to scurvy and other illnesses involving a deficiency of Vitamin C. It is true that in some cases rabbits can eat guinea pig food, but it is best if each animal has food that is specially formulated for them.
4) Guinea pigs are a lot smaller than rabbits, and may feel threatened and scared of their companion.
5) It is advised that cavies have hay for bedding, as they have sensitive skin and straw can be quite sharp, (although in extreme cold weather it may be best for them to have a mixture of hay and straw). A lot of rabbits on the other hand prefer straw for bedding.
One of the main reasons that people want to keep these two animals together is that it saves the cost of buying an extra hutch. However more expensive this may be, it is certainly best to do this! Some rabbits have been known to severely injure (or worse) the guinea pig they are with. Remember rabbits are naturally territorial creatures and so are quite likely to 'boss' the cavies around and show dominating behaviour.
This does not mean that rabbits do not like cavies. It is quite the opposite with some rabbits. What a lot of owners who want both animals tend to do is keep the animals in separate hutches next to one another, and let them all out for exercise together under supervision. This way if the rabbit starts to show dominating behavior it can be stopped before any of the animals get hurt. Remember if you are going to introduce your animals together like this, it is best to do so from a young age, as they will be less likely to fight (although some may still).
You may have noticed that a few pet shops keep rabbits and guinea pigs together. This may be alright as the animals are young and are more likely to get along; this doesn't mean they won't turn on each other in the future.
So, good luck with your rabbits and guinea pigs!
| To find out more about keeping rabbits and guinea pigs together go to: http://www.guineapigland.com/can-guinea-pigs-live-with-rabbits/ at http://www.guineapigland.com/ the site all about guinea pig care! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Madeline_Dyer | |
