Is there anything you can do to reassure timid guinea pigs when trying to pick them up?

Answer

Speak to them softly before you pick them up so they won't be startled, especially when they are asleep. Hold them quietly and stroke them gently. They need time to get used to your smell and your hands. It always helps to give them a treat when you are holding them, so they grow to look forward to being held.

Answer

Also try petting his/her head while talking softly to him/her before picking up. Since they are prey animals, the sight of arms "coming at them" triggers the flight response. Also, give them some place to hide. Try a pigloo sold at most pet stores. Their stress level will be a lot lower if they have someplace to retreat to. High stress levels set them up for illness.

Answer

It may also help to try to pick them up by scooping up from under them. Swooping down from above is similar to a predatory bird, and can scare the heck out of him.

Answer

Once you have them picked up cup your hands over them and continue to talk to them, it reminds them of a shelter. they do get used to being handled after being picked up every day for 2 weeks

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