Guinea Pig Care at Advanced Animal Care ER

Loving and Expert Care for Your Guinea Pig Companion

At Advanced Animal Care ER, we understand that Guinea Pigs are gentle, social, and affectionate pets that require specialized care. Whether you're a first-time Guinea Pig owner or a long-time enthusiast, our team is dedicated to providing the best care for your Guinea Pig. We offer everything from routine wellness exams to emergency treatments to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

What to Expect During Your Guinea Pig's Visit:

When you bring your Guinea Pig to Advanced Animal Care ER, you can expect compassionate care from our experienced team. Here’s what to expect during an initial visit:

  • Comprehensive Physical Exam: Our veterinarian will perform a thorough exam to check your Guinea Pig’s overall health. This includes checking their teeth, nails, coat, and overall behavior.

  • Diet and Environment Review: We’ll discuss your Guinea Pig’s diet, habitat, and any behavioral changes. A proper environment and balanced diet are key to their health.

  • Diagnostic Testing: If needed, we may recommend diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, fecal exams, or x-rays to diagnose any underlying health concerns.

  • Personalized Care Plan: Based on the exam and test results, we’ll create a personalized care plan for your Guinea Pig, which may include adjustments to their diet, environment, or treatment for any health conditions.

Common Guinea Pig Health Concerns We Treat:

Guinea Pigs are generally healthy animals, but they are susceptible to certain health issues. Some of the most common concerns we treat include:

  • Respiratory Issues: Guinea Pigs are highly sensitive to respiratory infections, which can cause symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and labored breathing.

  • Scurvy: Guinea Pigs cannot produce their own Vitamin C and may develop scurvy if not fed enough.

  • Diarrhea: Changes in diet or bacterial infections can cause diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration if not addressed.

  • Abscesses: Guinea Pigs are prone to abscesses, which are localized infections that may require draining or surgical intervention.

  • Parasites and Skin Issues: Guinea Pigs can suffer from fungal infections, mites, and other skin conditions.

  • Urinary Problems: These include bladder stones or urinary tract infections that can cause pain and discomfort.

Guinea Pig Care FAQs:

How many breeds of guinea pigs are there?
There are over 10 different breeds of guinea pigs, each with distinct characteristics, including different coat types, colors, and sizes.

Is there such a thing as short-haired or “Teddy” guinea pigs?
Yes! Teddy guinea pigs are a popular breed with a short, curly, and dense coat. Other short-haired breeds include American Guinea Pigs, which have smooth and glossy fur.

How long do guinea pigs live?
Guinea Pigs typically live 4 to 8 years, with some living longer when well cared for.

How big do guinea pigs get?
Guinea Pigs usually grow to 8-12 inches in length and weigh 1.5 to 2.5 pounds, depending on their breed.

Do guinea pigs make good pets?
Yes, guinea pigs make excellent pets. They are gentle, affectionate, and social, and they can become very bonded with their owners. They are a great choice for families or individuals who want a low-maintenance, interactive companion.

Are guinea pigs good for kids?
Yes, guinea pigs are often great pets for children. They are gentle and easy to handle with proper care and supervision. However, young children should be taught how to handle them gently to avoid stress or injury.

What are the best cages for guinea pigs?
Guinea Pigs need a large cage to live comfortably. The minimum cage size should be 7.5 square feet for one guinea pig, and larger is better. The cage should have solid flooring, ample space for exercise, and plenty of bedding to burrow in.

Is it possible to make a DIY guinea pig cage?
Yes, many pet owners create DIY cages for their guinea pigs, but it's essential to ensure that the cage is large enough and safe. Popular DIY materials include grids and coroplast (a type of plastic board). Ensure your guinea pig cannot escape or get injured.

Can I potty train guinea pigs?
Yes, guinea pigs can be potty trained to use a litter box, especially if placed in the corner of the cage where they naturally tend to go. Use pellet-based litter for easy cleaning and safety.

Is it okay to put my guinea pig in a ball?
No, it’s generally not recommended to put guinea pigs in exercise balls. Guinea pigs are not built for running in balls and can become stressed or injured due to the lack of space and their fragile bodies.

What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea Pigs are herbivores. Their diet should consist primarily of hay, supplemented with fresh vegetables like leafy greens (kale, parsley), carrots, and high-quality guinea pig pellets. They also need vitamin C, which can be provided through vegetables like bell peppers or a vitamin C supplement.

Do guinea pigs smell?
Guinea pigs themselves do not have a strong odor, but their cage can smell if not cleaned regularly. It's important to clean the cage, change the bedding, and wash food and water dishes daily to minimize odors.

Can guinea pigs live alone?
While Guinea Pigs can technically live alone, they are social animals and thrive best when kept with a companion. If you have a single guinea pig, they should receive plenty of attention from their human family members.

How many babies can a guinea pig have?
A Guinea Pig can have 1-6 babies per litter, with an average of 2-4 pups. Female guinea pigs can breed as early as 4-6 weeks of age, so it’s important to house males and females separately unless breeding is intended.

How do wellness and preventive care impact the health and well-being of my guinea pig?
Regular wellness check-ups help detect early signs of illness, prevent diseases, and ensure your guinea pig is on the right diet and in a safe environment. Preventive care can significantly extend your guinea pig's lifespan and quality of life.

How soon should I bring my guinea pig to the veterinarian if they are not eating or drinking or if other habits have changed?
If your guinea pig stops eating or drinking, or shows signs of illness (like lethargy or difficulty breathing), it’s important to bring them in for evaluation as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.

What are some common conditions that guinea pigs can experience?

  • Respiratory Issues: Colds or pneumonia can occur, often caused by drafts or poor ventilation.

  • Diarrhea: This can be caused by diet changes, stress, or bacterial infections.

  • Scurvy: A lack of vitamin C can lead to lethargy, swollen joints, and bleeding gums.

  • Abscesses: These are localized infections that may require draining or surgery.

  • Parasites and other skin issues: Guinea pigs can get mites or fungal infections.

  • Urinary Problems: Such as bladder stones or urinary tract infections.

How will a veterinarian be able to know if something is wrong with my guinea pig?
A veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical exam, ask about your guinea pig's behavior, diet, and environment, and may perform diagnostic tests (like bloodwork or x-rays) to pinpoint the problem.

What are some signs and symptoms that something is wrong with my guinea pig?
Signs that something may be wrong with your guinea pig include:

  • Drooling

  • Fewer fecal pellets

  • Odor (stronger than usual)

  • Difficulty walking or weakness

  • Lethargy or lack of energy

  • Labored breathing, wheezing, sneezing, or coughing

  • Diarrhea

  • Dull eyes

  • Fur loss or changes in texture

Why is it important to avoid self-diagnosing illnesses in my guinea pig?
Self-diagnosing can lead to incorrect treatments and may delay proper medical care. A veterinarian can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Why is early detection and diagnosis of illnesses in my guinea pig so important?
Early detection of illness allows for prompt treatment, which can improve the outcome and prevent the condition from worsening. Guinea pigs often hide symptoms, so timely veterinary care is essential for maintaining their health.

Signs Your Guinea Pig Needs Immediate Care:

If your guinea pig exhibits any of the following signs, it may need urgent care:

  • Sudden weakness or lethargy

  • Severe or persistent diarrhea

  • Excessive drooling

  • Labored breathing or coughing

  • Blood in the urine or stool

If you notice any of these signs, contact us immediately for urgent care.

How to Schedule an Appointment:

To schedule an appointment for your guinea pig, call Advanced Animal Care Emergency at 858-625-5678. Our team is here to provide the best care for your guinea pig companion.