Guinea pigs are adorable and popular pets that make various noises to communicate with their owners and other guinea pigs. These sounds are a great way for owners to know the mood and emotional state of their pet. Guinea pig sounds are essential to monitor for any changes, whether it’s just a simple communication or a sign of a serious health problem.
In this article, we’ll discuss the eight types of guinea pig sounds and their meanings.
1. Purring
Surprisingly, guinea pigs can purr, but it’s a low, grumbling noise. It can indicate several different emotions depending on the situation. They may purr when they feel relaxed, comfortable, or content. However, it may also indicate insecurity, anxiety, or stress. Therefore, it’s better to observe other body language cues of your guinea pig to understand the context of the purring sound.
2. Whining or Whistling
Whistling is a commonly observed behavior of guinea pigs. They whistle when they need attention, want food, or asking for something. This sound is usually an indication of their excitement or eagerness, but sometimes can indicate frustration or demand. So, it’s better to observe their body language to understand the context of this sound.
3. Chirps
The chirping sound of guinea pigs is usually in response to a new situation or object. It’s a sign of apprehension or nervousness. The frequency and intensity of the chirping sound vary depending on the situation and can be accompanied by other sounds like a low growl. Guinea pigs may also be chirping to communicate with their peers, and it can be observed in the group behavior of socializing guinea pigs.
4. Hissing
Hissing is a defensive behavior often associated with fear or anger. It’s a warning sound that indicates the guinea pig feels threatened or apprehensive. When guinea pigs hiss, they may either be trying to protect themselves or communicate their displeasure with something or someone. It’s important to take guinea pigs’ hissing sound seriously and avoid any behavior or environment that results in such a response.
5. Cooing
Guinea pigs commonly coo when they’re comforting their young or showing affection to their partners or other adults. It’s a soft, gentle noise that signals happiness and comfort. Guinea pigs coo when they feel relaxed and content and can be observed during their grooming or relaxing time. A comfortable and affectionate guinea pig produces a cooing sound that can be soothing to listen to for pet owners.
6. Chattering Teeth
Chattering teeth is a relatively uncommon sound that guinea pigs make. It’s a low, ticking noise that usually indicates discomfort or aggression. Guinea pigs may chatter their teeth when they are asserting dominance or warning another guinea pig. Chattering teeth also occur when the guinea pig is not happy or comfortable around a person or object.
7. Hooting
Hooting is a sound that indicates respiratory distress. Guinea pigs may hoot when they’ve difficulty breathing, and the sound is similar to wheezing. It’s a sign of breathing problems that must be addressed immediately. Hooting may indicate respiratory infections, allergies, or other acute and chronic health conditions. Pet owners must take their pets to an exotic animal veterinarian as soon as possible if they observe hooting sounds.
8. Squealing
Squealing is a severe sound that signals the guinea pig is in pain or scared. Guinea pigs may emit a loud and harsh scream when they experience significant discomfort or fear. It’s important to observe the physical posture and expression of the guinea pig to understand the reason behind the continuous squealing sound. Treat such sounds seriously and take necessary steps to eliminate the cause of pain or fear immediately.
In conclusion, guinea pig sounds are their way of communication with the surrounding environment, including their owners and peers. Observe their sounds and body language cues to understand their physical and emotional well-being. Guinea pigs are delightful pets and deserve the care, love, and attention of their owners.
