Health and Illnesses

Scurvy

This is usually caused by a lack of vitamin C in the diet. Guinea pigs do not produce vitamin C in the body, so must take it in through their diet.

Prevention - Feed plenty of fresh vegetables and some fruits which contain high levels of vitamin C, such as red pepper, cabbage, kale, parsley etc.

Mites

These are small parasites which guinea pigs can become infested with if not protected against infestation. Usually caught through contact with other animals which have mites or through hay which has mites in. 

Prevention - The best way to prevent mites is to shampoo with anti-parasitic shampoo which is sold specifically for small animals in most pet shops.

Fungal skin problems

These are caused by certain bacteria/funguses which cause skin irritation.

Prevention - Animal safe Tea-Tree shampoos or anti fungal shampoos.

Cloudy eyes

There can be a number of causes for cloudy/oppaque eyes. The most common cause is irritation by small parts of hay/straw/shavings which get into the eye. Antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed by a vet to help clear it up. Another cause is cataracts, which cause permanent blindness.

Prevention - Not using dusty hay and straw which has small parts in and not using shavings at all. 

Hair loss

Hair loss can be caused by stress, scurvy, mites or fungal skin infections. It is common for pregnant sows to have some hair loss due to the stress on their bodies.

Prevention - regularly bathing guinea pigs with anti-parasitic and anti-fungal shampoo, preventing stress and feeding lots of 'greens' (fruit and veg), especially during pregnancy.

Obesity

Caused by over feeding and a lack of exercise. Can be dangerous to their health, especially if pregnant. (can cause toxemia and death).

Prevention - Only feeding recommended amount and not just filling the bowl to the top. Also feeding more vegetables, hay, straw and grass than commercial foods will help an overweight guinea pig loose weight.