Smart Tips For Guinea Pig Health

The information featured in this report is provided to help you understand more about your guinea pig’s health. When finding your guinea pig sick or injured, please seek the help of a trained Veterinarian. The facts, opinions and suggestions written here should not replace the recommendations made by your Vet. With proper care and attention guinea pigs can live a long healthy life (some up to 10 yrs). Prevention is far superior than medicine. Keep your pet on a proper diet, exercise them regularly and maintain a clean and tidy cage.

I must mention that most guinea pigs are not fond of bathing (much like their feline friends cats). Only when it becomes absolutely necessary should you subject them to the stress of immersing them in water. A clean and sanitary living space free of feces, urine and unwanted food will add years to your guinea pigs health. Spot clean the litter material daily and disinfect the entire cage once every ten days.

Guinea Pigs or (Cavy’s) are more susceptible to disease and injuries compared to other pets. One Idea for this is the size of the homes, in comparison to say that of a cat or dog for example. To stay on top of your Guinea pigs health, you will need to examine him from day to day for signs of illness and wounds.

Sneezing and running nose. Allergies with the bedding material occasionally come about. Also Lengthy exposure to a new setting or contact with foreign objects or plants can generate allergies. Try Swapping the bedding material and stop from taking him to places you think may cause these symptoms. Constant discharge or chafing of the nose should be a sign to call the Vet.

Coughing or gasping. When your guinea pig has difficulty breathing and is coughing or wheezing, a respiratory infection may be to blame. Seek immediate attention from a Vet as these disorders can quickly become fatal.

Watery or cloudy eyes. Small particles like, dust, dirt and pollen can affect the eyes adversely and cause tears to form. A liquid solution from your Vet or local pet store can be used safely to flush out the irritants. If trouble persists see your Veterinarian.

Hair loss. When a Cavy is cut or bitten the fur near the injury will fall out. This is entirely natural.Extreme hair loss is much more severe. Parasites such as mites, ringworm and fleas may be to blame and should be treated by your vet right away.

Diarrhea. Too many wet foods is the likely suspect. Curb the fruit and vegetable intake , and up the amount of hay, pellets with vitamin C, and dried foods. Lactobacillus acidophiles in capsule form purchased from your Vet or pet store can remedy the problem. Add the recommended dose to water or administer directly from dropper to your pet’s mouth.

Pink or red urine. Blood in the urinary tract is grave. Get him/her to the Vet immediately.

Scratching and itching. Examine your pet’s coat frequently. Pesky mites, lice and other parasites can find their way onto your little fur ball and quickly cause irritation. These little vermin can be stooped dead in their tracks with specially treated shampoos and ointments available through your Vet or local pet store. Visit your Vet if scratching continues.

Seizures. When your Guinea Pig frequently tilts or shakes his head this may be the result of an ear infection. Infections caused by repeated bites from parasites can cause damage to a Cavys nervous system and have severe consequences to your Guinea Pig’s health. Body shaking, curling up, stiffness and erratic behavior are dangerous conditions that require immediate attention by a trained Veterinarian.

In conclusion. In my experience the best way to give your pet a long and healthy life is to keep his cage clean. Disinfect and change the litter material often. Doing this regularly will prevent many of the symptoms discussed in this article. Prevention is the strongest medicine to promote good lasting Guinea Pig Health.