What Do I Need To Take My Guinea Pig To The Vet For?
Guinea pigs require regular veterinary care and health checks. The following is a summary of what we recommend.
Regular Health Checks
We recommend health checks for guinea pigs every 6 to 12 months. At this time, your guinea pig will receive a thorough examination to help identify any occurring problems.
There are no vaccinations available for guinea pigs in New Zealand; therefore, guinea pigs do not require annual vaccinations.
De-sexing
Neutering your guinea pig can be beneficial for the following reasons:
Reducing the risk of fights occurring if you have more than one guinea pig
Decreasing aggression between boars
Prevents unwanted pregnancies
It prevents the development of ovarian cysts in females, which is a common reproductive disease in female guinea pigs.
Reducing the risk of male guinea pigs developing faecal impaction (which often requires the build-up of faeces around their anus to be cleaned by their owner daily).
We recommend de-sexing all guinea pigs generally from 4 months of age
Signs Your Guinea Pig Is Unwell
Even with excellent care, guinea pigs can still develop health issues. It’s important to monitor your pet daily and watch for any of the following signs:
Lethargy
Diarrhoea
Weak hind legs
Hair loss
Not eating or not drinking
Unusual pooh shape
Dull eye colour or coat
Squealing when urinating
Dirty teeth
Excessive scratching
Water staining around the mouth
Weight loss
Discharge from eyes and/or nostrils
Lump formation
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian experienced with guinea pigs as soon as possible. By following good husbandry and care advice, you can help reduce the risk of common problems and ensure your guinea pig stays healthy and happy.
Guinea pigs are prey animals and so try to hide their illnesses and pain - any small signs that something is not right get them to a vet!
Even something as simple as a personality change.
