Guinea Pig Health
The guinea pig is a great pet and a wonderful companion that can survive for more than 5 years as pets given the quality health care it needs. Quality health care does not only mean providing him with expensive food. Commercial food is not the best for your guinea pig. It just attempts to come close to the natural food of guinea pigs. So, there are a lot more to learn about the health of guinea pig.
In bathing your guinea pig try to only do it when it is necessary because most guinea pigs do not like being wet. To maintain good guinea pig health, some breeds will require more bathing than others because of their long hair. However try to keep them from being immersed in water for it can be stressful for guinea pigs. In terms of shelter make sure that their housing is free from dust and dirt and clean of any waste food, urine or feces. Also, disinfect the cage every 10 days or so. Regular monitoring of the cleanliness of the cage and the immediate area where your guinea pigs are housed will surely assist in the longevity of their lifespan.
As a part also of your guinea pig health regime, make sure that you examine them every other day for any signs of injury. Guinea pigs are more prone to injury than other pets.
Runny noses are something to be aware of with your guinea pigs. This could be an allergic reaction to their bedding or housing material. Changes in environment can give them irritation. You need to change the bedding, and search where or how the irritation might have come from. Then avoid that area in the future.
Coughing or wheezing can be very hazardous to your guinea pig or even fatal. If you notice this in your guinea pig you should get your pet to your local vet immediately.
Watery eyes are something also to look out for in maintaining good guinea pig health. Dust, dirt, pollen and other particles may affect the eyes causing them to have teary eyes. To remedy this go to your pet store and ask for liquid drops to put into the eyes. If this is not remedied see your vet as soon as possible.
Hair loss will occur when your guinea pig has been cut or injured. This may result to hair fall out around the wound. If your guinea pig is suffering from extreme hair loss due to ringworm, fleas, or other parasitic infestation, take him to the vet immediately.
Finally, good guinea pig health relies on a well balanced diet and lots of fiber. Here, avoid giving your guinea pig too many wet foods because it could be the cause of diarrhea. If this occurs, try to increase the amount of hay, pellets, dried food, and Vitamin C. Reduce the intake of fruit and vegetables. If your guinea pig is releasing red or pink urine, take him to the vet as soon as possible. This might be due to blood being discharged into the urinary tract which can be fatal.
With the right food and care, your guinea pig will certainly live a long and healthy life.
