Is my guinea pig foot broken?
Your vet may be able to tell if the leg is broken without X-rays but an X-ray is the best way to see exactly where the leg is broken. The leg may need to be splinted or have surgery to place pins in it to hold it together until it heals.
Why does my guinea pig have a broken leg?
Unfortunately, broken guinea pig legs are seen far too often by exotics vets and these injuries are often due to accidents involving children or problems with the guinea pig’s cage or toys. If you find yourself with a guinea pig that has a potentially broken leg, there are things you can still do to help your pocket pet.
Is it possible for a guinea pig to regain its legs?
Hind leg paralysis is not a hopeless situation. Depending on the cause, it’s possible, even likely, they can regain full use of their legs. Armed with knowledge, in just a few days your paralyzed guinea pig could be popcorning again. Don’t give up on your guinea pig too soon.
What to do if your guinea pig has paralysis?
Your vet will probably start with an exam to see if your guinea pig has any feeling in his legs. An X-ray will reveal if the legs have been fractured and can identify spinal injury. A guinea pig that has an injured or broken back can recover, but it will depend on the location and extent of the damage.
When to see a vet for guinea pig foot problems?
Usually the nail will grow back, although it may be more than a month before you see the new one. See a vet if there are any signs of infection like swelling or feeling hot to the touch. Some guinea pigs develop flaps of tough skin that protrude from their front feet.
Unfortunately, broken guinea pig legs are seen far too often by exotics vets and these injuries are often due to accidents involving children or problems with the guinea pig’s cage or toys. If you find yourself with a guinea pig that has a potentially broken leg, there are things you can still do to help your pocket pet.
What should I do if my guinea pig broke its back?
When you are holding it, use one hand to support its midsection and support its back legs with your other hand. Holding your guinea pig correctly protects its spine and back. These parts of the guinea pig can be strained or broken if too much pressure is put on them.
Usually the nail will grow back, although it may be more than a month before you see the new one. See a vet if there are any signs of infection like swelling or feeling hot to the touch. Some guinea pigs develop flaps of tough skin that protrude from their front feet.
How many toes does a guinea pig have?
Most guinea pigs are born with four toes on their front feet and 3 toes on their hind feet. Each toe has a continuously growing nail consisting of the outer horny part and the inner living part called the “quick”. The underside of the foot has a soft foot pad which should be regularly examined for swelling or injury.
