Guinea pigs are mostly unproblematic and adorable pets, but they can get ill - just like any other animal.
Some of them are pretty common, others are more related to their physiology and size.
If you want your pet to be healthy, then you should check its condition regularly, because it might have some of the following issues.
Respiratory Infections
Guinea pigs can get colds and respiratory infections, causing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and runny noses.
Dental Issues
Their teeth continuously grow, and if they don't wear down properly, they can develop problems like overgrown teeth or dental infections.
Digestive Problems
Guinea pigs can have digestive issues, including diarrhea or constipation.
These problems may be due to an improper diet or other underlying health issues.
Skin Conditions
They can develop skin problems such as mites, fungal infections, or abscesses. These can cause itching, hair loss, or sores.
Urinary Tract Infections
Infections in their urinary system can lead to discomfort and difficulty urinating.
Parasites
Guinea pigs can get internal parasites like worms or external parasites like fleas. These can make them sick if left untreated.
Heatstroke
Guinea pigs are sensitive to heat and can suffer from heatstroke if they are exposed to very high temperatures without proper cooling.
Tumors
Like other animals, guinea pigs can develop tumors, which may be cancerous or non-cancerous. These can sometimes require surgical removal.
Bladder Stones
These are hard mineral deposits that can form in the bladder, causing pain and difficulty urinating.
Scurvy
Guinea pigs need vitamin C in their diet. Without it, they can develop scurvy, which leads to weakness, swollen joints, and poor overall health.
