Common Guinea Pig Health Problems and Prevention Guide

Guinea pigs make charming and affectionate companions, popular with children, schools, and adults alike. Despite their popularity, many common health problems affecting guinea pigs receive far less attention than those of cats and dogs. Yet, knowledgeable care and timely veterinary support can keep your guinea pig healthy and thriving.

If you’re a current or prospective guinea pig owner, recognising health concerns early is vital. This guide covers seven frequent health problems in guinea pigs, their symptoms, and practical tips to prevent and manage them effectively.

1. Dental Issues: Managing Overgrown Teeth and Discomfort

Guinea pigs' teeth grow continuously throughout life. Insufficient chewing of fibrous food can cause overgrown or misaligned teeth, leading to pain, difficulty eating, and weight loss. To prevent dental problems, provide free access to high-fibre grass hay such as Timothy hay and fresh leafy greens daily. Chewing stimulates natural tooth wear and maintains healthy dentition.

Watch for signs like drooling, reduced appetite, difficulty eating, or a change in vocalisation indicating pain. Routine vet check-ups can identify dental issues early, and corrective trimming might be necessary.

2. Mite Infestations: Identification and Treatment

Guinea pigs are prone to mites, often contracted from close contact with infested cage mates. Typical signs include constant itching, scratching, hair loss, scabs, and sometimes disrupted sleep. Mites can cause significant discomfort and secondary infections if untreated.

If you suspect mites, consult your vet promptly for diagnosis and treatment. They may recommend specific anti-parasitic medications. Treat all guinea pigs in the group simultaneously, thoroughly clean cages and equipment, and replace bedding to avoid reinfestation.

3. Vitamin C Deficiency (Scurvy): Prevention and Consequences

Unlike some animals, guinea pigs cannot synthesise vitamin C and require a regular, fresh dietary source. Vitamin C deficiency leads to scurvy, causing internal bleeding, swollen joints, lethargy, poor appetite, and digestive issues.

To keep your pet’s vitamin C levels sufficient, ensure a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits high in vitamin C, such as bell peppers, kale, and small amounts of kiwi. Avoid overfeeding fruit to prevent diarrhoea. While supplements and vitamin C drinks are available, fresh food sources are most effective.

4. Swollen or Ulcerated Paws: Careful Housing is Key

Domestic guinea pigs often suffer paw problems due to walking on hard or wire mesh cage floors, unlike their wild relatives who live on soft grassy ground. Pressure sores or pododermatitis develop, causing swelling, ulcerations, and pain, sometimes leading to deep infections affecting bones.

Prevent paw problems by providing soft, ample bedding materials such as Timothy hay, paper-based substrates, or fleece liners over the cage floor. Never expose your guinea pig’s paws to uncovered wire or hard surfaces. When handling or letting them explore, keep them on soft grass or cushioned areas to protect their feet.

5. Gastrointestinal (GI) Stasis and Diarrhoea: Monitor Gut Health

GI stasis is a serious condition where digestion slows or stops, often due to poor diet, stress, or illness. Symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, pain, and reduced or absent stools. Diarrhoea can arise from infections, dietary imbalance, or stress, resulting in dehydration and weakness.

Maintaining a fibre-rich diet with constant access to hay helps promote healthy digestion. If any signs of digestive upset occur, seek quick veterinary advice. Treatment often involves dietary adjustments, fluid therapy, and sometimes medication.

6. Respiratory Infections: Early Signs and Prevention

Pneumonia and other respiratory infections are common in guinea pigs and can cause coughing, nasal discharge, breathing difficulties, and lethargy. These infections often involve bacteria like Bordetella or Streptococcus.

Good hygiene, avoiding sudden temperature changes, and regular health checks can reduce risk. If symptoms appear, prompt veterinary treatment is crucial to prevent severe illness.

7. Pregnancy Complications: Dystocia and Pregnancy Toxemia

Female guinea pigs, especially first-time mothers older than seven months, are at risk of dystocia—a life-threatening birthing difficulty. Symptoms include straining, bleeding, and collapse, requiring emergency veterinary care. Pregnancy toxemia, seen mostly in overweight sows, causes weakness, breathing problems, and often death without intervention.

Prevent these by responsible breeding practices: avoid breeding females too late in life and maintain healthy body weight through proper nutrition and exercise.

Conclusion: Promoting Your Guinea Pig’s Health and Happiness

By understanding these common health problems and how to prevent them through diet, hygiene, and housing, you can provide your guinea pig with a loving, healthy life. Regular veterinary check-ups and attentive observation for early warning signs are essential. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, especially for these sensitive little pets.

When looking to find a guinea pig or seeking advice, consider finding a guinea pig from responsible sources who value health and welfare. Prioritising their care means years of joyful companionship.