Here at Pawsome Vets, our team loves caring for all creatures big and small. So, did you know that we see small furries such as rabbits and guinea pigs too? 

We know that guinea pigs are part of the family and are simply bursting with personality and love, with plenty of squeaks along the way. 

Let’s discover why guinea pig health checks are so important, as well as looking at common problems to keep an eye out for. 

Importance Of Guinea Pig Health Checks

Whether it’s a cat, dog or a guinea pig – health checks matter. Routine health checks with one of our experienced veterinary surgeons helps to give your furry friend an MOT and we recommend a health check every six to twelve months, depending on your guinea pig’s age and individual needs.  

A guinea pig health check helps to: 

  • Check oral health: Guinea pigs can be prone to dental disease, so regular health checks allow us to check those gnashers to ensure that they are in tip top condition. 
  • Discuss diet: A guinea pig’s diet is super important to keep them happy and healthy. At a health check appointment, we can discuss what types of foods and quantities they are currently eating compared to up to date guidelines.
  • Examine coat condition: Guinea pigs can be prone to contracting mites. A thorough check over of their skin and fur can give you peace of mind that they are parasite free.
  • Check their weight: Having a regular log of a guinea pig’s weight gives us a better understanding of their overall health. Weight checks can ensure that our furry friends are not overweight or underweight, as well as checking that they are maintaining a healthy body mass.

Do Guinea Pigs Have A Lot Of Health Issues?

Most guinea pigs enjoy long, healthy lives with the right diet, housing and routine veterinary care. However, like any pet, they can develop certain illnesses that owners should be aware of.  

1. Gut Stasis 

Guinea pigs need a constant food supply in order to keep their guts moving, particularly a high fibre diet. If a guinea pig stops eating for any reason, the movement of food through the digestive tract can slow down or stop altogether. This is known as gut stasis and is a veterinary emergency.  

If you notice that your guinea pigs stop eating, it’s important to contact us as soon as possible. 

Symptoms of gut stasis include:  

  • Reduced or no appetite  
  • Lethargy 
  • Bloated abdomen  
  • Small amounts of faeces 
  • Depression 

Monitor your guinea pigs eating habits and always keep a close eye if you think they are starting to slow down. 

2. Dental Disease  

Guinea pigs have teeth that continuously grow. In order to keep them down to a normal level, they require a high fibre diet to wear them down. 

In some cases, their teeth can overgrow, become misaligned or develop an infection. Common symptoms to look out for with dental disease include: 

  • Weight loss 
  • Reduced appetite 
  • Small droppings 
  • Dropping food regularly  
  • Excessive drooling 

Dental disease can cause serious secondary problems, such as gut stasis, so it’s important that we see your guinea pig as soon as possible if you’re worried. 

3. Respiratory Infections 

Guinea pigs are prone to respiratory infections and are one of the most common problems that we see here at Pawsome Vets. Often caused by stress, poor hygiene or inadequate ventilation, bacteria can enter the respiratory tract and cause issues. 

If you notice signs of: 

  • Nasal or eye discharge 
  • Sneezing 
  • Loud breathing 
  • Lethargy 
  • Loss of appetite 

Then it’s important to contact us as soon as possible. Our experienced vets can create a treatment plan and get your guinea pig on the road to recovery. 

4. Vitamin C Deficiency   

Did you know that guinea pigs can suffer from scurvy?   

Unlike many other mammals, guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C, so they must obtain it from their diet every day. If they do not receive adequate Vitamin C, their immune system, joints and skin condition can start to decline. 

Common signs of a deficiency include: 

  • Swollen joints 
  • Poor coat condition 
  • Weight loss 
  • Lethargy 
  • Difficulty walking 

Once diagnosed, we may prescribe a Vitamin C supplement and work together to improve their diet, suggesting a variety of vegetables that are high in Vitamin C. 

5. Pododermatitis – Bumblefoot 

Bumblefoot is a painful condition affecting the feet, causing infection and inflammation. This is often caused by pressure sores found on the footpads. 

Bumblefoot is commonly caused by unsuitable flooring and substrate in their run, but can also be seen in overweight guinea pigs. 

Common symptoms include: 

  • Difficulty walking 
  • Ulcers or sores on the feet 
  • Reluctance to move 
  • Swollen feet 

If you suspect that your guinea pig has bumblefoot, it’s important that we see them for a consultation as soon as possible. Treatment can include pain relief, antibiotics and changes to their enclosure, but we will be able to advise you on a case by case basis. 

Final Thoughts

Guinea pigs are wonderful companions and, with the right care, many enjoy long and happy lives. Regular health checks, a high-fibre diet, a clean enclosure and monitoring for changes in appetite or behaviour can all help detect problems early. 

If you’re concerned about your guinea pig or would like to arrange a routine health check, our experienced team at Pawsome Vets is here to help.  

Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference to your pet’s health and wellbeing. 

Frequently Asked Questions: Guinea Pig Health Checks

What is the most common disease in guinea pigs? 

There are a variety of common diseases seen in guinea pigs, but dental disease and gut stasis are some of the most frequent that we see here at Pawsome Vets. 

Both can potentially cause serious problems, so we recommend booking an appointment as soon as possible if you’re worried.  

What are the signs of a sick guinea pig?  

Guinea pigs are prey animals, meaning that they naturally hide signs of weakness. Common signs of an unwell guinea pig include:  

  • Weight loss 
  • Lethargy 
  • Sneezing 
  • Diarrhoea 
  • Reluctance to move 
  • Small faeces  
  • Inappetance  
  • Discharge from the eyes or nose 

Can guinea pigs get sick from dirty cages? 

Yes, poor enclosure hygiene can cause a variety of health problems including respiratory infections, parasites, bumblefoot and skin infections. 

We recommend regularly cleaning their enclosure and spot cleaning daily. Our veterinary nurses would be happy to advise you further on guinea pig husbandry if needed. 

Can you catch any diseases from guinea pigs?  

It is unlikely that you can catch diseases from your guinea pig. Although the risk is low, there is a zoonotic risk of contracting ringworm and salmonella.   

One of the best ways to reduce the risk is to practice good hand hygiene after handling your guinea pigs or their bedding. Take extra care, especially with children or people who are immunocompromised.