Guinea pigs and scurvy: prevention, symptoms, and treatment

Scurvy is a condition few of us hear about nowadays, often evoking images of historic sea voyages and pirates suffering from vitamin C deficiency. Yet, this disease is still very relevant for Guinea pigs, as they share with humans the inability to produce their own vitamin C, making an adequate diet essential for their health.

What is scurvy in Guinea pigs?

Scurvy, medically known as hypovitaminosis C, is caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the diet. This vitamin is crucial to collagen synthesis, necessary for healthy connective tissue, bones, skin, and blood vessels. Guinea pigs lack the enzyme 1-gulonolactone oxidase, which means they cannot synthesise vitamin C internally and must receive it through their diet.

Without sufficient vitamin C, guinea pigs develop symptoms including weakness, lethargy, bleeding gums, swollen joints, poor skin condition, weight loss, and eventually more severe complications such as painful movement and non-healing wounds. Untreated scurvy can be fatal.

How do Guinea pigs develop scurvy?

Scurvy commonly develops when Guinea pigs are fed a diet low in fresh vegetables or commercial feeds enriched with stable vitamin C. Sometimes, underlying health conditions may affect vitamin C absorption or utilisation, causing deficiency despite adequate dietary intake.

Recognising the symptoms of scurvy

Early signs of scurvy can be subtle and gradual, making early detection difficult. Owners may notice their Guinea pig becoming lethargic or reluctant to move. As the condition progresses, symptoms can include:

• Limping or difficulty walking due to swollen, painful joints
• Bleeding or swollen gums
• Patchy fur, hair loss, and poor coat texture
• Poor appetite and weight loss
• Delayed wound healing and painful sores
• Teeth grinding and vocal indications of pain

These symptoms require urgent veterinary attention to prevent further deterioration.

Diagnosis and veterinary care

A vet will diagnose scurvy based on clinical signs, diet history, and may assess blood vitamin C levels. Early veterinary intervention is essential. At necropsy of severe cases, characteristic haemorrhages in tissues and swollen rib cartilage junctions confirm the diagnosis, though prompt treatment typically prevents progression to this stage.

Treatment and recovery

If scurvy is diagnosed, treatment involves prompt vitamin C supplementation, usually through veterinary-prescribed injections, ensuring effective absorption. Oral supplements may be less reliable as vitamin C degrades quickly outside ideal storage. Pain management and supportive care improve recovery prospects.

Preventing scurvy: Diet and care tips

Prevention of scurvy in Guinea pigs is straightforward but vital. The diet should always include fresh vegetables rich in vitamin C such as bell peppers, kale, and parsley, alongside commercial pellets formulated to meet their nutritional needs. Avoid relying solely on vitamin tablets or vitamin C supplements without dietary sources, as these may not be sufficient or correctly absorbed.

Regular veterinary check-ups help monitor health and dietary adequacy. In cases where absorption issues arise, lifelong supplementation might be required as recommended by your vet.

Responsible Guinea pig ownership

Providing a balanced diet, clean living conditions, and timely veterinary care reflects responsible pet ownership. Understanding the importance of vitamin C and recognising the signs of deficiency can save your Guinea pig from suffering and premature death.

By prioritising your pet's nutritional needs, you nurture a happy, healthy companion ready to enjoy a full, active life.

For more information or to find reputable sources to find a Guinea pig or acquire appropriate food, consult trusted breeders and pet professionals.