Learn More, VAT Number: GB837106436 Hi there! If your guinea pig exhibits any strange behavior or signs of illness after their cage has been cleaned, we recommend not using the same products as last time. Things To Remember About Guinea Pigs and Bloody Noses 1. And solutions for cleaning their ears you can simply use warm water. However, here are some tips we found that help pass the time better. Is it safe or is letting your guinea pigs eat corn a bad idea? Squeaks, Scales and Tails is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC an affiliate advertising program. Water or saline solution is enough. Youll also learn how piggies get these kinds of injuries and when you need to break open your piggie bank and get your little friend to the vet. Answer 13: Wheezing is not a normal symptom in guinea pigs and could be a sign of a respiratory infection. Regardless of its size, whenever your guinea pig has abrasions or scratches, you have to deal with it quickly. Log in, Texel Guinea Pig: Facts, Lifespan, Behavior & Care Guide. A cavy can catch these parasites from another infected guinea pig. This article received 12 testimonials and 84% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. Enjoy! When the water gets dirty, and still, your guinea pig bottom needs to get clean, then repeat the above process. But where do guinea pigs get these parasites? In these circumstances a trip to the vet is needed. They typically have an agreeable personality and tend to have a relatively long lifespan compared to other small pets. 5 Dos Of Wound Cleaning 1. It causes inflammation in the nasal cavity lining and a lot of irritation which results in sneezing, occasional bulging of the snout, and a runny nose. Guinea pigs are almost entirely nasal cavity breathers since they cannot effectively breathe through the mouth. @media screen and (min-width: 993px) and (max-width: 1200px) { GUINEA PIGS: AN ADULT COLORING BOOK: A Guinea Pigs performing diagnostics to check guinea pig runny nose, continuous monitoring of the pigs activity, frequent follow-ups by a veterinary doctor. If you want some tips on how to take better care of your fur babies, check out these posts: 7 Alarming Reasons Why Guinea Pigs Pee Blood and The Alarming Truth About Washing Guinea Pigs In Dish Soap. (Find Out Now) , Why Does Your Guinea Pig Run Up Your Neck? The Guinea pig handbook. They should however be introduced gradually to the pigs to avoid digestive upset. Answer 12: If you think your guinea pig has a cold, it is important to take it to the vet. Respiratory stress may cause a sickly feeling to the guinea pig, which in turn leads to loss of appetite. I have a total of three guinea pigs and have had them for about a year now and they have been fine and healthy. (2014, December 10). He's had two Americans, two Abyssinians, and one Silkie Guinea Pig. Its important that their cage be kept very clean. Please dont use antiseptics that you can find at home. You dont want to have to worry about debris getting into the wound. When you tend to your guinea pigs, pay close attention to the state of their tiny home. Its caused by a bacteria known as Streptococcus. If your guinea pig has a lot of discharge from their nose, you can contact your veterinarian for advice on how to treat the infection. But, thanks. Guinea pig companionship. A drop from a height can kill guinea pigs. unlocking this expert answer. We will tell you in advance and in all honesty, this can be a messy process. This website is amazing! Once cleaned, your guinea pig cage should not necessarily smell of anything, and especially not cleaner or added scents. Commonly used antihistamines include diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine. A good vacuum cleaner fitted with HEPA filters can also be crucial to ensuring that the environment around the pigs and even the general home is spotless and free of dust and other allergens. Wait too long though and your guinea pig will be sad and might even start attracting flies! So we have put together the ultimate guide on how to clean a guinea pig cage, with details taken from our own experience. You should clean your guinea pigs nose as often as needed, or when it appears dirty. 2. RECOMMENDED: COMPLETE GUINEA PIG CAGE SETUP GUIDE. If you want to mix your own cleaner, we recommend using a 1-to-1 mixture of distilled white vinegar and water. Guinea pigs often touch each other's nose to apologize after a fight to understand their position. @media screen and (min-width: 1201px) { Smithsonians National Zoo. You have two ways to go about getting the right kind of cleaner: mix on yourself or buy one specifically made for guinea pigs. Sometimes when you focus your attention on the wound itself so much that you might miss some other tell-tale signs that could indicate infection. Its therefore advisable to give enough air space, and clean bedding for the pig to avoid this problem. display: block; Merck Veterinary Manual. Another way is to use a syringe to flush their nose with saline solution. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. If they're not, there is an underlying problem. } Some guinea pigs kept outside have, Read More Can Rats Kill Guinea Pigs? [1] Want to know more? .exdln63a287d7a7588 { Among the recommended courses of action is; Youd have already known what to do with the pig based on the physical examination and its history before deciding the next course of action, like medication. display: block; I was gone from home for a couple of hours and one of my guinea pigs eyes (both of them) are squinted and one of them is a bit red. Keep Your Guinea Pig's Nostrils Clean When cavies have a runny nose, their nasal cavity can easily get blocked with discharge and mucous, making it difficult for them to breathe. The air humidifiers are responsible for keeping the conditions around the pig optimal to avoid catching a cold, that can lead to nasal discharge. $109.00, Eglu Go Guinea Pig Hutch with 3ft Run - Leaf Green, $475.00 Author: Published on: November 6, 2020 Published in: Uncategorized Published on: November 6, 2020 Published in: Uncategorized Usually a quick rinse is enough for cleaning any toys or items, including any hideaway huts. Spray the sides and bottom of the cage with a spray bottle filled with 1/2 plain, white vinegar and 1/2 water. You can also use a Q-tip to clean the hard-to-reach areas of the nose. Remember to constantly replace the carpeting around the guinea pigs cage, or shampoo it thoroughly to avoid instances of a dusty environment to the pig. If you find any large piece of dirt or wax, use a tweezer to get rid of it. Assuming the answer is no, you will want gloves. It may not display this or other websites correctly. They rumblestrut, try to mount each other, or move around in circles. Cleaning your pig's cage at least every week is very important in maintaining your pet's health. Company Reg. On average, a guinea pig stares because theyre bored, curious, fearful, or sleeping. Do not use the same one as your cat, dog or other pet. In cases of extreme sickness, its advisable to hospitalize your pig for intense treatment such as oral or injectable multivitamins until its strong and stable for home care. } This could be a sign of a respiratory infection or another health problem. Know When To Contact The Vet 5 Don'ts Of Wound Cleaning 1. Letting Your Guinea Pig Lick or Chew on the Wound, 5. For a guinea pig, a runny nose shouldnt be ignored or taken for granted at any time, but rather be considered a basis for visiting a vet, to ensure the well-being of the respiratory system of the pig. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made by my readers, but it doesn't cost you anything at all. I was gone from home for a couple of hours and one of my guinea pigs eyes (both of them) are squinted and one of them is a bit red. Cedar bedding can cause many health problems, as can pine. It may seem confusing or even downright stressful but dont panic. } Good choices of vegetables include kales, turnip greens, spinach, parsley, dandelion greens, and lettuce. flinching screaming or squealing, Read More Is Your Guinea Pig In Pain? They are known for their gentle and loving nature, and their cute little noses. However, if you notice that your guinea pigs eyes are a little crusty, cloudy, protruding or ulcerated then there might be a health problem that needs your attention. Unless your guinea pig has gotten sticky or smelly, it should only need to be bathed a maximum of 2-3 times per year. For advice on how to keep your guinea pig comfortable while you clean the cage, read on! By adopting the above-mentioned guidelines. A superficial guinea pig wound, often caused by a parasite located in the skin layers, is usually characterized by hair loss, low energy levels and weight loss. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. mypetguineapig.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. View our privacy policy and our disclosure policy for more information. display: block; Guinea pigs may be small and cute, but they still experience pain just like humans do! ClickHEREfor a peek at my disclosure. What Are the Causes of Runny Nose in Guinea Pigs? This is achievable through sensitivity testing and should be conducted whenever possible. Once your fur babys wound has been disinfected, its essential that you continue to monitor him for signs of infection. Is this normal? Just leave your guinea pig cage out to air-dry for an hour or so and you are good to go. My mission is to teach others useful tips and tricks about these cute creatures. Be forewarned there will . Allow the disinfectant to sit on the surface for 10 minutes so that it has time to work, killing bacteria and other harmful elements. .exdln63a287d7a7588 { Its advisable to fill the hay racks in the open air space and make sure to put only the required amount, to avoid dust accumulation in the cage. You are using an out of date browser. How Often Should I Clean My Guinea Pig Cage? @media screen and (min-width: 769px) and (max-width: 992px) { On suspicion of dental disorders or overgrown tooth roots, its crucial to have an x-ray diagnosis done on the skull of the pig, to make informed decisions on the next step to take. Discharges from the pigs eyes and nose could be a sign of respiratory problems. Gently wipe the inside of your guinea pigs nostrils, being careful not to go too deep. Others may however develop on and off infections for their entire lifespan, while others may relapse and get ill again as soon administration of medication is discontinued. Cleaning ears. } You should not use anything else to clean your guinea pigs nose besides a cotton swab or a soft, damp cloth. Answer 8: Some guinea pigs may have more discharge than others, but it is important to keep an eye on the amount of discharge present. Its therefore advisable to have rabbits and guinea pigs in separate cages. } Watch and learn how to how to gently clean the ears.. If it fails to eat over a long period, this means that there might be a problem and you should instantly inform the vet. Last Updated: December 17, 2022 When it comes to pet first aid, doing it right can save you from worrying and additional expenses to the vet. These irritations lead to discharges from the nose. You need a clear idea of how manageable the cuts are. Why is it necessary to clean your Guinea Pigs ears? Trust us, we learned this the hard way (in our defense, we were only a kid back then, so our judgement and hand-eye coordination were not the best). This bacteria is responsible for the advancement of the infection into Pasteurella pneumonia. Cage liner? Before Cleaning: Supplies and Materials. This is nothing to be concerned about. However, MAKE SURE it is safe for small animals, especially guinea pigs. Some guinea pigs runny nose will become completely clear and be free of bacterial respiratory infections only by responding to antibiotic treatment and therapy. For example, crusty eyes and a runny nose indicates a respiratory . So lets dig into how to clean your guinea pigs cage quickly, effectively, and safely. (Find Out Here)Continue, If youve got a guinea pigs, chances are that youre very close with them. In cases of illness where the little pet has been given antibiotics, you should constantly check for improvement in breathing and loss of the signs of the respective illness. Check! In this sense, cleaning your guinea pigs wound may seem to be a piece of cake. So, sterilize the wound before infection can occur. The grass had been cut that day, could that have caused it? The pigs response to the shots might be gradual and slow and requires patience to monitor recovery. For a healthy guinea pig, breathing is quiet and easy. Additionally, a reusable liner saves you money in the long run! Another is barbering, whereby a guinea pig chews its hair or that of its cage mate as a result of boredom. Are there any other options? Just imagine them darting around the living room, not paying attention and they bump into the corner of your coffee table . Number: 05028498 What is the Best Treatment For A Runny Nose in Guinea Pigs? Try wrapping the cotton pad around your thumb to make it easier and more convenient to clean his nose. This evening I went out to clean them out and say goodnight to them but as soon as I lifted the lid off the hutch I heard one of them making a strange noise. However, we understand that washing these liners can be an added pain if you do not have access to a washing machine. While there are plenty of pet-specific scrubs or sponges out there, a rag is generally enough. Step 2. Mycoplasma and Pasteurella pneumonia are infections that occur in the lower respiratory tract and the lungs. If symptoms persist over a long time, this may need the vets attention for a change of mediation. What happens if you dont clean your guinea pigs nose? When first aid is required, there are specific things you should do to make sure the injury is properly treated. What kind of cloth should you use to wipe a guinea pigs nose? What happens if you give your guinea pig corn? References } If you notice dry nasal discharge on their nose, dip a cotton pad in warm water and gently wipe their nose. Mr. Spaghett demonstrates how to do this process we perform monthly. Will it be fun to wash their cage or enclosure? link to What Did Guinea Pigs Eat in the Wild? Wash your hands and apply antihistamine before handling the guinea pigs, to avoid the risk of transmitting allergens to the cages and exposing the guinea pigs to its dangers. When taking care of a guinea pigs injuries, it can be tempting to do what we would normally do for ourselvesbut thats not good for cavies. An abscess is where pus builds up in the affected tissue causing swelling, pain, and redness. Treatment options and prognosis solely depend on what is gotten from diagnosis through conducting x-ray checks when theres suspicion of pneumonia or lower respiratory infection. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 278,625 times. There are a couple of ways that cavies can get hurt If the right treatment isnt given, then the guinea pig wound can get infected. For example, if your guinea pig has crusty eyes and a runny nose then this could be indicative of a respiratory infection or allergy, and a trip to the vet is needed. Zippi Tunnel Single with Hutch to Run Connection Kit, $0.00 Otherwise, it can lead to infections that could endanger the life of your cavies. Every week! A cavys wound needs to be kept as clean as possible. Guinea Pig Cage Cleaning Supplies Checklist, Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Guinea Pig Cage. The first few cleanings especially are a time of trial-and-error as you figure out the best methods for cleaning your guinea pigs unique cage or enclosure. Answer 4: If you dont clean a guinea pigs nose, the discharge can build up and block the nostrils, making it difficult for the guinea pig to breathe. Untreated wood is best, as plastic can be swallowed and cause harm to your pet. Male guinea pigs need special grooming known as boar cleaning. Cleaning your guinea pigs cage is the perfect chance to give them some quality floor time. Have the vet examine the dental formula of the pig and do necessary corrections when a need arises. If the discharge is excessive or contains blood, this could be a sign of a respiratory infection and you should take your guinea pig to the vet. 1. Follow the 5 Dos and Donts to keep guinea pigs free from injuries. When Do Guinea Pigs Stop Growing and How Big Do They Get? If you're unsure how to clean your guinea pig's cage, perform a spot clean daily by removing excess food and wiping the cage with a paper towel. Massage gently across your pet's body using a finger and avoid getting any shampoo on its face as it can sting. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. When guinea pigs have accidents in their cage, it could lead to injuries like a broken leg or foot. Assuming you mean how to clean a guinea pigs nose: Answer 15: If your guinea pig is in pain when you touch its nose, this could be a sign of an infection or injury. Answer 3: You should clean a guinea pigs nose as often as necessary, depending on the amount of discharge present. Is it normal for your guinea pig to sneeze when you clean its nose? Chronic infections can be frustrating to both the owner, the vet, and the guinea pig itself, since they may now require life-long therapy and treatment. When guinea pigs lived in the wild, their diets were not all that different Can Guinea Pigs Eat Corn? DVM,S.L. (2015). Start by wetting a cotton ball or soft cloth with warm water. Its caused by a variety of irritants and two common bacteria, namely Bordetella brondiseptica, and Pasteurella multocida. If your pet's hiding place can be washed, it's a good idea to rinse it off as well. This can lead to infections and other problems, so its important to keep them clean. Answer 10: Some guinea pigs may have wet noses due to excessive discharge or sneezing. Guinea pigs are social animals that need to be around other cavies more often. Guinea pig care. Some signs that your guinea pig needs its nose cleaned include if it has a runny nose, if its nose is visibly dirty, or if it is sneezing more than usual. Our personal recommendation is to get a reusable and washable cage liner. Knowing how to clean a guinea pig cage is one thing. How to Prevent Runny Nose in Guinea Pigs? Just like our own noses, guinea pigs noses can get dirty and full of gunk. If you notice rattling, clicking, and wheezing sounds when breathing, these are signs that show your pet might be having respiratory distress. } You can also use a Q-tip to clean their nose, but be sure not to insert it too far into the nostril. However, sometimes stains are stubborn. Make sure you use very less oil or water so that it does not enter the ear canal since this could harm their ear. The information on this website should not be take as a substitute for professional advice. } Normally, guinea pigs will ignore their wounds as long as their pain (or the root cause of the wound) is being treated appropriately. (Find Out Now) You should check them out. Hopefully, it is nothing and is gone again by tomorrow. That way, they can prescribe the proper treatment. If your guinea pig is sneezing a lot, it is important to have it checked by a vet to rule out any serious problems. This goes for both humans and animals. Thisll be easy if you. What should you do if you think your guinea pig is sick? Hold your guinea pig in a comfortable position. My guinea pig is sneezing a lot. Give your guinea pig something to chew on in its cage. When it comes to outdoors guinea pigs, treat them like you would tender plants. Long-haired guinea pigs might require daily brushing, depending on the length and thickness of their coat. Leave them in the sink to dry while you clean out the cage. If this happens, the guinea pig needs treatment with another antibiotic, and its advisable to immediately inform your vet. I've never been more confident about, "This article about guinea pigs helped me to decide whether I am capable of getting a guinea pig or not and whether, "I loved this. My guinea pig is wheezing. If youre not sure how your piggie got the wound, its best to contact a vet. Damp corners are breeding grounds for dangerous bacteria and germs! Avoid using anything abrasive, as this could irritate the sensitive skin inside the nostrils. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. If you spot a wound on your guinea pig, make sure to take immediate action and clean it properly. For a healthy guinea pig, breathing is quiet and easy. Gently pour warm water over your pet with your hands or a jug (stay away from their eyes, mouth, and nose). What Happens if Guinea Pig Wounds Are Untreated? Copyright 2023 mypetguineapig.com. } 89.70, Eglu Go Guinea Pig Hutch with 1m Run Package - Leaf Green, 379.00 Especially if its very severe, but youre not able to get your fur babies to the vet right away. The pig might also reduce its water intake due to a change in the taste of water, and this might also lead to other health issues. Is this normal? Where Is The Best Place To Buy Guinea Pigs. Do you want poop on your hands? Cover cages at night using a blanket or a towel to avoid exposing the little pets to cold. What Is the Proper Way of Cleaning a Guinea Pig's Wound? Now you have something to lift the stink and stains from your guinea pigs cage, but you still need something to do the (literally) dirty work. Your email address will not be published. Guinea pigs are susceptible to a number of respiratory infections, some of which can be deadly. Lower your guinea pig into the water. You can clean your guinea pigs nose with a warm, damp cloth. By using our site, you agree to our. I will try take him to the vet tomorrow to get him checked out but I was just wondering if anyone had experienced anything similar and knew what it was or what was causing it. What is a Group of Guinea Pigs Called? Once every week, conduct a thorough clean of the cage by removing all of the contents, spraying down the cage with a mild detergent, and rinsing it with water. Fortunately, drying your guinea pig cage is far from tricky. Some guinea pigs may need their noses cleaned daily, while others may only need it done every few days. For example, crusty eyes and a runny nose indicates a respiratory infection or allergy. https://bioweb.uwlax.edu/bio203/s2008/nickel_sara/interactions.htm. Take out literally everything. Use Soap, Neosporin, Shampoo, or Other Cleaning Products 2. Check out these most popular guinea pig products on the market: Last update on 2022-12-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. https://www.petplace.com/article/small-mammals/general/abscesses-in-guinea-pigs/, Behaviour Guinea pigs Our pets. Since vitamin C tablets are soluble in water, people often make the mistake of dissolving them then giving the solution to the guinea pig. If you have none of those options, then rinsing your guinea pig cage in the shower might be your best bet. Using your cleaning and a scrubber or rage, wipe down your guinea pig enclosure from one end to the other. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. Itchy and inflamed eyes may also show conjunctivitis, which is an infection of the eyes. An exotic pet veterinarian can help diagnose the cause of the abscess as well as the best treatment. BioWeb Home. Your vet might need to prescribe some pain killers or antiobiotics. Animal Humane Society. But, its even more important to treat the main cause. Good info! https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/behaviour, Disorders and diseases of Guinea pigs All other pets Merck veterinary manual. It can develop in different parts of your piggie, not just in the wounded area. Repeat this process once or twice a week, or as needed. Answer 1: The best way to clear a guinea pigs nose is to use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away any discharge. ", keeping our sweet pet's home clean and safe for him to thrive. Guinea pigs are one of the most popular pets in the world. Easy-peasy. Thanks, wikiHow! The first reason is because theyre usually too harsh for guinea pigs and might cause more harm than good by hindering the healing process. There are types of abscesses can require surgery due to the thickness of the pus. You WILL get poop on them. Other problems may include bumble-foot, shown by sores developing beneath the hoofs of guinea pigs as a result of too much pressure. As such, it requires its own set of cleaning supplies, all of which must be safe for your guinea pigs! If you think your guinea pig is sick, you should take it to the vet. Gloves. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Is this normal? You will absolutely thank us for this. This can be quite unnerving to some people who dont understand the reasons why this happens. The conjunctiva, the inner part of the eyes, may also turn red. (And Other Key Terms), How Often Should You Clean a Guinea Pigs Cage? So, before you go straight to the vet, think of what you can do to alleviate the pain and bleeding. Always have someone supervising your guinea pigs. Otherwise, a bucket will do just fine. What is the best way to clear a guinea pigs nose? Use a gauze pad or a clean towel. Here are some tips on how to clean your guinea pigs nose: 1. One guinea pigs will often take the subordinate role and start grooming the dominant one. This may involve surgery for desired corrections, and the doctor may prescribe pain medication to help your guinea pig in the recovery process. Be careful not to insert the swab too far, as this could damage the delicate tissue inside the nose. Antibiotics can also be harmful to the bacteria keeping the digestive tract healthy, and is, therefore, necessary to watch out for signs of distress. This can happen with both male and female pairings. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. When cleaning your guinea pigs wound, dont overdo it. When faced with the challenge of looking after their wounds, you need to clean them a little differently. Although there are several suggestions on draining abscesses at home, its still best to have a veterinarian check on them. If your guinea pig's eyes need cleaning, and yet they dont seem able to do it themselves, this too may indicate a health problem. That is why we have two recommendations below: our favorite reusable liner and the best set of disposable liners. However, many of us do not have distilled white vinegar laying around the house. This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. This can cause open sores, which can potentially become infected. This should be done every single day. Odds are you will be focused on scrubbing that enclosure clean, so have a family member or friend stay with your cavy. Never again hear the dreaded sounds of your guinea pigs angry squeaks because you forgot to clean out their cage or feed them on timefor the fourth day in a row. Respiratory stress may cause a sickly feeling to the guinea pig, which in turn leads to loss of appetite. Be on the look out for signs such as swelling or reddening around the wound, sluggishness in your guinea pig, and loss of appetite. display: block; Rinse the wound with the solution to remove debris and sterilize the cut. However, we understand many of you might not live in such a convenient locale. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. I think my guinea pig has a cold. Apples, bananas, carrots, blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes, and grapes can also be given to the pigs. % of people told us that this article helped them. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Other dental complications such as fractured teeth and teeth that are too long are common for guinea pigs and are easy to spot. .rvixi63a287d7a768d { (n.d.). After cleaning, dry your guinea pig using a soft towel. Once scrubbed to utter cleanliness, give everything a solid rinse.
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