Skin problems are common in guinea pigs. Mites, fungi, bald spots, tumors and inflamed sole pads are the most common conditions. They cause various complaints such as itching, baldness, pain or scabs. If a guinea pig suffers from fungi, this is not always visible. Fungi are transferable to humans and do not pass by themselves. So be alert when you get itching and red spots. A visit to the doctor is then necessary. In general, skin problems in guinea pigs can be treated well.
Mites or mange in guinea pigs
When a guinea pig suffers from mites, this is also called scabies. Trixacarus Caviae is the most common mite in guinea pigs. Mites cause severe itching, sometimes so bad that it can cause epileptic seizures. The skin becomes red from scratching and bald patches appear. Scratching also causes infections and skin damage, and white / yellowish crusts form. Mites are spread through mutual contact, an infected cage or through contaminated bedding.
The diagnosis and treatment
Often the infection starts at the back of the body and eventually spreads to the entire body. The diagnosis can be made by the symptoms present. Sometimes it is necessary to take a sample. The vet then scrapes some of the skin with a special instrument, often until the skin starts to bleed. This is necessary because mites can be deep in the skin. This scraping of the skin is examined under the microscope for the presence of mites and eggs. Once the diagnosis has been made, treatment can be started. This consists of special drops for the skin or by administering injections.
A fungal infection
Fungal infections are very contagious and transmissible to humans. People get itching and red spots. A fungal infection does not go away on its own. Therefore, in case of complaints, contact your doctor. A guinea pig can be infected with a fungal infection without it being visible and then become a carrier. mentioned. Even if there are no visible symptoms, the animal can infect others. The infection can be recognized by bald, scaly patches that can be very itchy. The head and auricles are usually affected first, followed by the rest of the body.
The diagnosis and treatment
The guinea pig’s hair is needed to make a diagnosis. These are sent in, for examination under the microscope and put in culture. Thereafter the treatment can be started. The fungal infection disappears by washing with a special shampoo. Stubborn infections are treated with a drink.
Baldness
Bald spots can be caused by: itching, vitamin deficiency, excessive brushing, boredom, dominant behavior of peers and hormones.
The diagnosis and treatment
Female guinea pigs sometimes suffer from ovarian cysts. These are blisters filled with fluid that produce female hormones. As a result, too many hormones are produced and a bald spot is created on both sides of the flanks. This also occurs in pregnant guinea pigs. The bald spots disappear by themselves after delivery. Out of boredom, a guinea pig gnaws at the hair that it can easily reach, on its flanks. This creates bald spots. To prevent this, offer the guinea pig roughage and provide sufficient distraction. When several guinea pigs are kept together, the one who is higher in rank than the others can show dominant behavior. This manifests itself in biting off the hairs of other guinea pigs.
Skin tumors are usually benign
A benign hair follicle tumor is most common in guinea pigs. A bump develops, usually around the flanks, containing a white to yellow-gray substance. These tumors almost never spread. If they are not too large, they can be removed surgically.
Inflamed sole pads
An inflammation of the soles of the feet is also called pododermatitis.
It often occurs with:
- Guinea pigs with overweight
- Poor hygiene, a wet or rough surface
- Vitamin C deficiency
- Old age
- Not enough exercise
The diagnosis and treatment
The soles of the feet swell and are painful. Small wounds develop, which can become infected and cause abscesses. An infection can affect the skin, muscles, tendons and bones. After the diagnosis has been made, treatment can be started. In case of mild inflammation, anointing and bathing the soles of the feet helps enough. In other cases, antibiotics are prescribed in combination with pain killers. In a severe infection, the affected tissue must be surgically removed. To prevent inflammation of the soles of the feet, it is important to keep the house clean, provide soft bedding, provide extra vitamin C and prevent obesity.