Do guinea pigs get indigestion?
Normal gastric emptying time is reportedly about 2 hours, however, guinea pigs are prone to gastric reflux under anesthesia and should be fasted at least 3 hours prior to induction for surgery.
Why is my guinea pig swollen?
The usual cause for the development of lymphadenitis in guinea pigs is bacterial infection, most often Streptococcus zooepidemicus. Underlying factors include harsh or irritating food, unclean bedding material, and overgrown teeth or the inability to close the jaws properly.
How often should I give my guinea pig fluids?
Administer warm fluids: 38-39°C (100-102°F). Maintenance fluids are estimated as 50-75 ml/kg/day. Subcutaneous (SC) fluids are indicated only for animals with a stable circulatory system and mild dehydration (max 5%). Administer SC fluids up to three times per day (give one-third of calculated fluid volume at a time)
How to take care of a guinea pig?
Most pet guinea pigs are calm, gentle animals that rarely bite. To pick up a guinea pig, cup one hand gently under the thorax and use the other hand to support the hind end. Hold the rump lower than the rest of the body. Administer warm fluids: 38-39°C (100-102°F). Maintenance fluids are estimated as 50-75 ml/kg/day.
Is it normal for a guinea pig to get sick?
While they are usually healthy animals, there are a number of diseases that commonly affect pet guinea pigs. By knowing what the most common illnesses are, you can be better prepared to monitor for signs and symptoms that your guinea pig may be getting sick.
When to get medical attention for a guinea pig?
Your guinea pig should receive immediate medical attention if you suspect ileus, so it can get a diagnosis and be prescribed the proper medications. Ileus can be caused secondarily by an underlying illness or stressor which, in turn, causes your guinea pig to stop eating.
What does it mean when guinea pig washes its eyes?
After the eye fills up with the white fluid, the guinea pig will then take their front paws and make washing motions. This may happen several times per day although you may never even notice. VC Richardson describes a “milky ocular discharge” as “a normal fluid which is released from the eye as part of the grooming process.”
What should I do if my guinea pig is dehydrated?
Most disease treatments should include extra vitamin C. Diarrhea and other illnesses may cause your guinea pig to become dehydrated. Signs of dehydration include dry stools, dark urine, or skin “tenting” (skin that returns to its normal position slowly after being pinched). If your pet is dehydrated, your veterinarian may provide fluid treatment.
Why does my guinea pig keep getting sick?
Guinea pigs come from drier areas of South America, and they tend not to cope very well with damp British weather. If kept outside, or in a damp room of the house, guinea pigs may develop signs of pneumonia or other respiratory infections.
What should I do if my guinea pig has redness in his eyes?
Application of an ophthalmic triple antibiotic eye ointment 2 or 3 times daily may help reduce redness. Veterinary ophthalmologists can diagnose and treat difficult eye problems. DON’T DELAY SEEKING VETERINARY TREATMENT. EYE PROBLEMS CAN RESULT IN PERMANENT DAMAGE OR EYE LOSS IF NOT TREATED. Allergies are extremely rare in guinea pigs.
