Guinea Pig Sounds

Guinea pets will use a variety of distinct guinea pig sounds to communicate happiness, distress, pain, fear and excitement. Here are the most common sounds which pet owners may hear and the possible meaning of these sounds.

Wheeking Guinea Pig Sounds

Pet owners will often hear their guinea pigs making a loud repeated ‘wheeking’ noise when their pets see them. These guinea noises may be especially pronounced in the morning when the guineas first see their favorite human or during feeding times. The guinea wheeking seems to be a way of saying “Hi, I’m glad to see you!” and is indicative of excitement and happiness.

Guinea Pig Sounds of Content

Guinea pigs will make a purring noise when they are especially content and happy. The purr sounds similar to a raccoon purr, not a feline purr, and guineas may make these noises when they are being held or cuddled.

Guinea pigs may also make a sound, similar to purring, that has a slightly different pitch and rhythm known as bubbling. A happy guinea may make this noise when exploring a new room or when roaming freely outside of the cage.

Guinea Pig Sounds of Anxiety and Warnings

Guinea pigs that are feeling threatened or anxious may make a number of warning sounds which may include a chattering noise, hiss or a low rumble. Often these sounds are accompanied by body postures, such as stiff-legged posture or backing into a corner, which may also indicate the guinea’s distress.

Guinea Pig Sounds of Pain

A sudden sharp squeaking or shrieking noise may be a sign that your guinea is in pain. It is a good idea to check on your guinea if you hear this noise to try to identify the cause of the sound.

Identifying Guinea Pig Sounds

If you have recently adopted a pair of guineas, it may take a few weeks before you begin to hear their entire repertoire of guinea pig sounds. Once they become used to you and their new environment, they will begin to communicate more freely. If you hear new sounds which you are unable to interpret, take a close look at the guinea’s body language to try to understand what your pet is saying.