No.

Guinea pigs are highly social animals, and living alone can be confusing, distressing, and even harmful to their well-being. They thrive in pairs or small herds, where they engage in natural behaviors like grooming, playing, and sleeping side by side—forming deep bonds that fulfill their need for companionship. No amount of human attention or the presence of another species can replace the companionship of their own kind.

Single guinea pigs often show signs of loneliness and stress, such as excessive squeaking, pacing, or hiding. Over time, isolation can lead to withdrawal, depression, and even a loss of appetite or interest in play. The negative effects of prolonged solitude in guinea pigs are similar to those observed in other highly social animals, such as orcas in captivity or humans in solitary confinement.

DID YOU KNOW? In countries like Holland, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, and Austria, it is illegal to own just one guinea pig because of the distress it causes them!

There is a common misconception that guinea pigs are low maintenance or a good ‘starter pets’ that children can care for independently. But in reality, the majority of daily care and responsibility will fall on the parent(s). Guinea pigs need to be fed a measured diet twice a day, have their area tidied up daily, and get time outside of their cage for social interaction, and expensive vet care if they get sick.

Children’s initial excitement about guinea pigs often fades after just a few weeks and as kids grow older, their priorities naturally shift to friends, school, extracurricular activities, and sports, leaving the guinea pigs at risk of neglect. Also discuss what will happen when your child goes off to college or moves out. Not all colleges allow exotic animals in dorms.

Monthly Costs $60-120 The ongoing monthly cost of bedding / litter, hay, food, treats, toys, and fresh produce, for two guinea pigs is approximately $60 to $120.

Annual Costs $1,000-1,750 Guinea pigs should have an annual wellness exam with an experienced exotic veterinarian every year, this costs around $100 to $150 per guinea pig. Therefore, the total annual cost for owning two guinea pigs is $1,500 and $2,000; this includes the monthly costs of food and other supplies as well as their annual check-up.

In the event of a medical emergency, which is unfortunately common as guinea pigs are extremely fragile, the cost of emergency veterinary care can be $500-700 or more.