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* Update: It’s important to note that expert guinea pig veterinarians consider spaying to be major surgery, not a simple operation like it might be with a cat or a dog. Also, surgery on guinea pigs requires special training … don’t let just any vet perform it. See www.GuineaPigInterviews.com for more information please.
Injuries
Guinea pigs have bones that break easily and their depth perception is poor which can cause them to fall and hurt themselves. If your guinea pig is moving more slowly or seems to be in pain, then look for swelling or injuries. Take them to the vet right away if you notice an injury. Don’t worry that your pet may necessarily need to be put to sleep because of a broken bone. This is not always the case.
You may have heard of the injury called bumblefoot. This is the swelling and infection of the footpad caused often by wire bottomed cages and too much soiled bedding. If your guinea pig has bumblefoot, she may not want to move at all. Ask your vet for a treatment for this problem.
Sometimes guinea pigs lose the use of their back legs. This is somewhat common and is not a sign of injury. If you see your guinea pig dragging itself around, administer a dose of liquid calcium. This seems to solve the problem. If you do not see an improvement in two or three days, call your vet.
Many guinea pigs never experience any real health problems. If yours does, you will now know how to proceed.
On a Budget?
Sure, you want to own a guinea pig, but you don’t have a huge budget to pay for frequent vet visits. Your cavy may only need a yearly check-up, or they may need costly care. The following table may help you decide your course of action:
SYMPTOM
CAN MEAN…
(Can be cured at home)
BUT MIGHT MEAN…
(Consult a veterinarian)
Bare spots in fur
Poor diet (more fruits and vegetables)
Deficiency disease (Vitamin C deficiency); fungal skin disease, mange mite infestation, ringworm
Drooling
Not enough to gnaw
Teeth too long or a malocclusion
Diarrhea
Eating large amount of foods high in water (i.e., iceberg lettuce, cucumber); not enough hay; environment too cool or damp
Bacterial infection
Excessive scratching
Unclean maintenance; poor grooming; fleas or mites
Parasites (fleas or mites); skin fungus; skin inflammation
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