What kind of diseases do guinea pigs have?
Guinea Pigs – Their most common Illnesses 1 Stomach and digestion problems: A healthy guinea pig eats and poops normally. 2 Skin problems: Guinea pigs are susceptible to fungal infections. Some guinea pigs can be carriers, without showing symptoms themselves. 3 Parasites: Fleas, lice and mites commonly affect guinea pigs.
Why does my guinea pigs skin itch so much?
It is their weak spot, as it were. Some guinea pigs will behave bizarrely, twitching the skin on their backs and running round in circles, desperate to stop the itching. The guinea pig’s skin problem will be because of lice, mites, bacteria or fungus.
What kind of skin does a guinea pig have?
However, there is a difference, as fungal infections usually affect the top layer of skin and guinea pig’s hair. Luckily, these infections can be easily identified. The most common symptoms include dandruff-like skin on the coat, as well as scaly skin on feet, nose, and ears.
Why is my guinea pig losing its hair?
Whether the skin problem is caused by a fungal or bacterial infection or by a parasite, the initial signs are the same; scratching and the loss of small patches of hair. In a long haired guinea pig this will probably first present by the coat looking rather less lovely than usual.
Can guinea pigs cause health issues?
The only health issue I can think of from guinea pigs is a potential allergy to the guinea pig itself or the hay or bedding. Hand-washing after handling makes sense for any pet and might need to be something to remind a small child about.
Do guinea pigs get liver disease?
Yes it is possible for guinea pigs to develope liver disease. It is most often caused by some other disease vector. I am sending a link that will explain more about the causes and symptoms that you may see. As for the itching that could be caused by a few different things. This could be a fungal infection, bacterial infection, fleas or mites.
Why are my guinea pigs scratching?
The most likely cause of itchy skin for guinea pigs is ringworm, a common fungal infection. Other, more serious causes may be to blame. Only your vet can tell for sure, so take your guinea pig for a full evaluation at the first sign of itching and scratching.
Why is the guinea pig itching?
Bacterial infections can cause itching and inflammation, and dry skin or allergies may also trigger itching and scratching. External fungal infections are among the most common causes of guinea pig itching. These infections generally begin on the face and spread to other areas of the body.
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.
Why does my guinea pig have so much diarrhea?
Digestive disorders caused by bacteria, viruses, or a parasite. The symptoms of a digestive disorder include diarrhea, weight loss, dehydration, a lack of energy and a lack of appetite. Dental issues, such as slobbering. This is caused by a misalignment of your guinea pig’s teeth,…
Can a guinea pig mask the symptoms of illness?
Guinea Pigs can mask their illness, and many of the signs and symptoms are subtle. Changes in their behavior, appetite and overall appearance are indications that they are not feeling well. It isn’t right to ignore a sick or suffering pet. They are part of your family and deserve loving care in good health AND in sickness.
What diseases do guinea pigs carry?
Respiratory Infections. Pneumonia is one of the most significant diseases of pet guinea pigs and can be caused by several bacteria, including Bordetella and Streptococcus . Guinea pigs can naturally harbor these bacteria and may be asymptomatic (apparently healthy) carriers.
Can guinea pigs pass illness to humans?
Rodents and reptiles are known for spreading salmonella to humans. Guinea pigs can pass the bacteria to people through their feces. Salmonella is usually not serious but can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever. Guinea pigs can carry salmonella while still appearing to be perfectly healthy.
Are guinea pigs dangerous to people?
The CDC has identified nine people who became sick due to a strain of salmonella bacteria that can likely be traced back to contact with pet guinea pigs, according to a report from the agency. The cases affect residents of eight different states and were reported between July 2015 and December 2017.
Can a guinea pig have congestive heart failure?
They can help the vet distinguish between Congestive Heart Failure and respiratory disease. However, many heart pigs also have respiratory disease including pneumonia. Signs: These signs may occur daily or only occasionally. If your Guinea pig exhibits any of these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.
Why do guinea pigs have so many respiratory infections?
Respiratory infections are extremely common in guinea pigs, usually due to how easily these viruses and bacteria spread when guinea pigs are housed together. Once one guinea pig in a group has any type of respiratory illness, it won’t be long before they all do.
What diseases will guinea pigs give humans?
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) is a rare viral disease that can be transmitted through the urine, droppings, saliva, or cage material of infected wild and domestic rodents, including hamsters, guinea pigs, rats, mice, and other small rodents.
Do guinea pigs carry lots of diseases?
Guinea pigs and hamsters. These pets can carry salmonella; lymphocytic choriomeningitis; Yersinia pseudotuberculosis , which causes an infection that mimics appendicitis; Campylobacter; Trichophyton mentagrophytes; Hymenolepis nana; and Trixacarus caviae, a parasitic skin infection found particularly in guinea pigs.
