Development of Social Behavior in Young Guinea Pigs (Cavia Porcellus)

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Abstract
Twenty-four young guinea pigs from eight litters were observed with their parents to obtain a basic description of the development of social behavior. Observations of the litters were made during the first eight weeks after birth. Scores for approach behavior remained fairly stable with about 30% of the time containing some approach behavior. Scores for following behavior began with about 40% of time containing following in week 1, and declined to around 20% in week 8. Scores for time infants spent in physical contact with another animal started at around 75% in week 1 and declined rapidly to about 20% by week 5. Scores for nursing started at about 70% in week 1 and approached zero by week 5. The results may be a useful baseline to evaluate future behavioral studies in young guinea pigs.