🐹 “Understanding Guinea Pig Sounds: What They’re Telling You”
By One Love Animal Rescue
Keywords: guinea pig sounds, guinea pig communication, guinea pig noises explained, what guinea pig squeaks mean
Guinea pigs are small in size, but they’re big on personality—and they have a lot to say! At One Love Animal Rescue, we care for many guinea pigs, and over time, we’ve learned how much you can understand just by listening.
Whether you’re a new piggy parent or thinking about adopting, here’s a guide to the most common guinea pig sounds and what they usually mean.
🎶 Common Guinea Pig Sounds (and Their Meanings)
1. Wheeking (Loud Squeaking)
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What it sounds like: A long, high-pitched squeal or whistle
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What it means: “I’m excited!” or “Feed me!”
Guinea pigs often wheek when they hear a food bag rustle, see their human approaching, or anticipate veggies. It’s their version of jumping for joy!
👉 Fun fact: Many guinea pigs learn the sound of the fridge or crinkle of lettuce bags and will wheek on cue.
2. Chutting or Purring
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What it sounds like: A soft, low “chut-chut” or gentle vibrating purr
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What it means: Contentment or relaxation
When a guinea pig is exploring or being petted and lets out this calm sound, they’re usually feeling safe and happy.
However, a tense or high-pitched purr could mean the opposite—uneasiness or mild irritation. Pay attention to body language too.
3. Teeth Chattering
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What it sounds like: Rapid clicking or clacking of teeth
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What it means: “Back off!”
This is a warning sign. It typically means the guinea pig is annoyed, scared, or asserting dominance. If two pigs do this toward each other, it may be time to give them space.
4. Rumbling
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What it sounds like: A low, vibrating rumble
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What it means: Dominance or courtship
Often seen in males, rumbling (sometimes paired with a slow strut called “rumble strutting”) is used to show off. It’s usually harmless, especially between bonded pigs.
5. Shrieking
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What it sounds like: A loud, sharp scream
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What it means: Fear, pain, or distress
If you hear this, check on your guinea pig immediately. It may indicate an injury, illness, or a fight with a cage mate.
🧠 Why Sound Matters
Guinea pigs don’t bark or meow—but that doesn’t mean they’re quiet. They use vocalizations to communicate emotion, needs, and warnings, and learning to recognize their language helps you:
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Bond more deeply with your piggy
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Respond appropriately to their moods
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Catch signs of distress or illness early
💚 Ready to Adopt a Talkative Friend?
At One Love Animal Rescue, we always have guinea pigs looking for loving homes—many in bonded pairs. If you’re ready for a tiny companion with a big voice, reach out to learn about our adoptables or how to volunteer.
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