My guinea pig is quiet after getting a new friend. Should I worry?

I wouldn't say normal. There could be a few conditions happening. I would make sure his teeth are even and there isn't an uneven surface causing discomfort. Oral and respiratory infections can happen which could cause a sore throat which could change the voice. If there are Cedar or Pine shavings for a bedding this can sometimes cause allergies with Guinea Pigs. Also a diet lacking in Vitamin C could be the cause. Always make sure you have the correct husbandry or it's easy for problems to occur. I would recommend keeping a close eye on him and if he is acting abnormal (not eating, drinking, abnormal feces or urinating) then he should visit a local veterinarian. Guinea pigs are very fragile and can look normal one instant then sick in another. Here is a link for proper husbandry of guinea pigs. Https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/small-pet-care/guinea-pig-care

Hello, thank you for using Pet Coach. It sounds to me like something may have spooked George. Do you have any guests over for the holidays? Any changes in the household or with his cage? I don't think I would be overly worried about this just now. Just keep a close eye on him and if his behavior doesn't go back to normal in a couple days then maybe you should have your vet take a look at him just to rule out any underlying medical issues. Hope this helps. Happy holidays!

This sign might be compatible with a chronic respiratory tract inflammation/infection, even though is quite vague at this stage. My suggestion would be to just monitor him in case you notice any other sign (lethargy, inappetence, coughing, sneezing, any evident discharge from nose and so on). Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Sudden behavioral changes are frequently caused by illness or injury. An exam with your veterinarian would be ideal. In the meantime, check her teeth for overgrowth or malocclusion, make sure she is eating and defecating normally and provide clean bedding and regular vitamin C supplementation.

Guinea pigs are very vocal creatures, but it will take some time for you to learn what are normal noises and what are not. I would error on the side of caution and have him looked at. Most places have a several day health guarantee, but you will have to see what your individual store will do for you. I hope he's back to his new home in no time!

Thanks for reaching out about Peanut Butter. Sometimes vocalizing while handled is a sign of discomfort. So is being secretive. A veterinary visit is recommended as soon as possible. Try to offer water and food via syringe until the visit. An emergency visit over the weekend might be a good idea. Good luck.

Excessive vocalization can sometimes indicate pain or illness, so following up with your vet to see if Toffee's infection has cleared is best. It may be that she is also feeling a bit better and is more active/excited to see you and thus vocalizing. Taking into account other things such as her activity levels, how much she's eating and drinking, how playful she is, etc can help give you a better indication of her health and pain levels than just squeaking alone.