In Switzerland, it is illegal to have only one guinea pig. It is considered animal abuse because they are social beings and feel lonely.
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The guinea pig - also called cuy, curí, or Indian pig - is a round, furry rodent small enough to fit in one hand.
It is not surprising that, given these characteristics - and the considerable level of cuteness that this species carries wherever it goes - the guinea pig is commonly adopted as a pet.
One country in particular legislates the ownership of these rodents in private homes. The law that does so determines that it is illegal to have only one guinea pig. What? Why?
Where is it forbidden to have only one guinea pig?
The country in question is Switzerland. Since 2008, its Animal Protection Ordinance prohibits having solitary guinea pigs, as they are very social animals that depend on companionship. Adopting one automatically implies adopting another simultaneously.
The Federal Office of Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs of the country confirmed the reasoning behind the law, stating that the quality of life of these animals greatly depends on the presence or absence of a guinea pig companion.
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Guinea pigs are not the only animals included in this recommendation. Other species that "must be kept in groups of at least two animals"
are:
Mice.
Gerbils.
Japanese quails.
Macaws.
Parrots.
Canaries.
Another interesting fact: it is stipulated that domestic rabbits cannot be alone during their first eight weeks, and afterwards they must remain in groups whenever possible. If that is not feasible, they at least have to be able to hear and smell other rabbits.
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