Guine Pig Health Information

For any questions about guinea pig health of course consult a veterinarian preferably one that specializes in exotic animals, which includes guinea pigs, but here are some good things to know.


Vitamin C

While most mammals make their own vitamin C oddly enough guinea pigs are like humans, neither of us can make our own vitamin C and must get it from food. If they don't get it they will get scurvy just as we do (I am talking to other humans, yes?) (just an attempt at humor couldn't resist) and it can cause stiffness in their joints or even be deadly to the pig. They get vitamin C from eating fresh, raw fruits such as apples and vegetables like spinach, celery, cabbage and carrots or they can get it through supplements.


Urine

Guinea pig urine is slightly white if it's red or pink it indicates blood in the urine which could mean stones in the bladder and of course get him to the vet. If the urine is very white or there is a thickness to the urine it may be too much calcium.


Diarrhea

It's no laughing matter when your guinea pig gets diarrhea as it could throw off his electrolyte balance and make him sick and even be deadly if it continues.It can be brought on by antibiotics which wipes out all the good bacteria in the intestines or it could be you are just feeding him too many vegetables or wet foods in which case just give him more hay. Also acidophilus or lactobacillus can be helpful. Get it at the health food store in capsule form.


Feces

Along with their usual feces both rabbits and guinea pigs also produce soft pellets which contain bacteria, the good kind of bacteria which are needed for proper digestion, B vitamins and fiber. These animals consume these pellets directly from their anus. So should you think your pet is so hungry he is eating feces don't be alarmed he is eating a supplement made by his body and is necessary for good guinea pig health.


Bugs

Mange mites will cause hair loss, scratching or pain on touching him. Mites can drill through the skin and sometimes affect the nervous system and cause seizures where his head goes straight up in the air without a tilt. If there is a head tilt as with some seizures it's probably not from mites.

Eggs from lice can attach to his hair appearing as white or black specks on his coat. If he has running lice they can be seen running through his hair. Bathing him with gentle neem oil soap will effectively get rid of lice.