Guinea Pig Health Problems and How to Treat Them

A sick guinea pig may show several signs depending on the type of illness present. While they are usually healthy animals, several diseases can affect pet guinea pigs. Learn about common guinea pig diseases, including signs, treatment, and prevention so you can help your sick guinea pig.

Signs and Symptoms of Common Guinea Pig Ailments

All guinea pigs are different and even the most common health ailments can present differently in different animals. If you think your guinea pig is sick, it's important to note any of the following signs and symptoms:

• Behavior changes
• Appetite changes
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Changes in urination or defecation
• Changes in daily habits
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Limping
• Hair loss
• Skin redness
• Unkempt appearance or rough coat
• Swelling, lumps, or bumps on any part of the body
  

Common Guinea Pig Diseases

These are many health problems that can make a guinea pig sick. The following are some of the more common health conditions seen in guinea pigs:

Ileus

Ileus is caused when gas builds up in the gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines). Due to the lack of normal peristalsis and no food coming into the digestive system, gas is unable to leave the body. This causes discomfort and can be life-threatening.

Ileus can be caused secondarily by an underlying illness or stressor which, in turn, causes your guinea pig to stop eating. Monitor food intake and be aware of how any changes may have impacted your pet.

Guinea pigs should always be eating and defecating. If you see your guinea pig hasn't touched its food and you are seeing fewer and smaller stools being passed, your guinea pig may have ileus. If you suspect ileus, seek immediate medical attention.

Ectoparasites

Lice and Demodex mange mites are conditions that can both cause itching and hair loss. Lice and their eggs are usually seen in the bald patches behind your guinea pig's ears and mites can be seen microscopically all over the body.

If your guinea pig has hair loss and is itching or scratching a lot, it may have lice or mites. Speak with your veterinarian if you suspect any of these parasites to determine the best course of action.

Guinea pigs can give these parasites to each other and can also get them from toys and bedding. Be aware before introducing any new guinea pigs if they seem to have any skin conditions. Before introducing food or bedding into the cage, make a habit of freezing it for a day. Frozen temperatures will kill off any potential parasites.

Uterine and Ovarian Diseases

Female guinea pigs often develop uterine and ovarian issues, including various cancers, and having your female spayed can prevent these issues. If she is living with a male, this will also prevent multiple litters of guinea pigs.

Sometimes the uterus and ovaries can be removed even after the problem has been discovered. Other times, cancer has already spread to other parts of the body, rendering it untreatable. An exotics veterinarian can perform a spay surgery (complete ovariohysterectomy) to prevent uterine and ovarian diseases, just as in a dog or cat. While some guinea pig owners are not able to justify the cost of the procedure, others see the great benefit of having their guinea pigs longer and not having to pay for emergency treatment when they notice their pig is sick.

Respiratory Diseases

Guinea pigs are sensitive to cold air drafts and can easily develop an upper respiratory infection or pneumonia. They can even get Bordetella bronchiseptica from your dog, cat, or pet rabbit.

Take notice of your guinea pig's cage location and be sure to keep them away from drafts, open doors, and open windows. This simple act will help decrease the likelihood of them getting a respiratory infection. Wash your hands after handling other animals, including guinea pigs at pet stores, your dog or cat if they are coughing or sneezing, and even your rabbit. If you or your family are feeling ill, it's best to keep your germs to yourself.

Uroliths

More commonly referred to as bladder stones, uroliths often form in the bladder of pet guinea pigs. They cause pain and discomfort in your pet and you may also notice bloody urine due to the irritation the stone causes. If you notice infrequent urination or bloody urine, call your veterinarian right away and they will do some tests to determine the cause. Bladder stones are often found on radiographs being taken for a diagnosis of ileus and must be surgically removed.

Vitamin C Deficiency

Vitamin C deficiency, also called scurvy, occurs when a guinea pig does not get enough vitamin C in their diet. Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C and rely on food sources to provide this essential nutrient. Vitamin C is necessary for collagen production, and deficiencies can cause weakness, difficulty walking or limping, and internal bleeding. You may also notice diarrhea, loss of appetite, and an unkempt appearance.

What to Do for a Sick Guinea Pig

Contact your veterinarian if you suspect there's something wrong with your pet guinea pig. Take note of the signs you've seen and any recent changes to your guinea pig's diet or environment. Guinea pig ailments can be hard to diagnose, and an exotics veterinarian is the best person to examine your pet. Early detection and treatment can help a sick guinea pig recover faster.

How to Prevent Guinea Pig Illness

The best way to keep your guinea pig healthy is to keep a close watch on your pet.

• Feed a proper diet
• Make sure your guinea pig is eating, drinking, urinating, and defecating
• Wash your hands before and after handling guinea pigs and other pets
• Freeze your pet's bedding and food before use
• Keep cages and habitats away from drafts and direct sunlight
  

These actions will help you prevent the bulk of the most commonly seen diseases, though there are, of course, numerous other diseases that can affect guinea pigs. To rule out anything else or to look for internal issues, an annual physical examination with your exotics vet is always recommended.