Behavior changes after new cage mate
About a month ago we brought home another girl guinea, Peanut, to be a cage mate for Ellie. We did all the suggested steps, quarantine, introduction through a separated fence and finally full introductions and cage sharing in a new space with washed and new bedding. Ellie is about 2 - 3 years old and peanut is 9 months, so it seems that a hierarchy was easily established. We have noticed a change in Ellie's behavior though ever since Peanut was introduced. Ellie has always been a bit on the cranky side which she displays with Peanut. She will chase Peanut away from food sometimes and just seem to get grumpy if Peanut does something she disapproves of. But over all Ellie just seems to be not as energetic, explorative and doesn't make that purring sound as much when we pet her.
Can anyone share their experiences with introductions? Is it possible that Ellie is just still adjusting to the change or could she be depressed?
Can anyone share their experiences with introductions? Is it possible that Ellie is just still adjusting to the change or could she be depressed?