Alongside vitamin C-rich vegetables, supplements, like tablets, are also available when a high deficiency arises. You can also hold your guinea pig in a blanket to make them feel at ease. Double check our supplies list above to be sure you have everything you need for a successful cleaning venture. What is the best way to clear a guinea pigs nose? The sensitivity of the pig to the antibiotics should also be put into consideration, to avoid the introduction of new allergens to the system of the already ailing pig. 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). It is okay, the world wont end. As such, it requires its own set of cleaning supplies, all of which must be safe for your guinea pigs! You can also use a Q-tip to clean the hard-to-reach areas of the nose. Out! Part 1 Diagnosing the Cause 1 Visit your vet. Not only does a good cage liner help with odor control between cleanings, it also speeds up the cleaning process. This is nothing to be concerned about. Now, you have two ways to go about this. Follow the 5 Dos and Donts to keep guinea pigs free from injuries. ", cleaning her cage! For your guinea pig, allergy shots are highly recommended. https://www.erinsark-petcareguide.com/guinea-pig-companionship, Its important to understand what to feed your guinea pigs. @media screen and (min-width: 1201px) { Barrons Educational Series. If it fails to eat over a long period, this means that there might be a problem and you should instantly inform the vet. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 278,625 times. Dont be surprised if they sniff around and act a little investigative at first. (Find Out Now). That means an increase of spot cleaning and deep cleaning. Guinea pigs are naturally curious and can get into a lot of trouble. For advice on how to keep your guinea pig comfortable while you clean the cage, read on! Discharges from the pigs eyes and nose could be a sign of respiratory problems. 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. A drop from a height can kill guinea pigs. Linked below is our favorite pair full of flair. However, understanding which foods should be avoided is essential information to have. } If they're not, there is an underlying problem. Answer 12: If you think your guinea pig has a cold, it is important to take it to the vet. Your email address will not be published. pet-care-guide. What could be wrong? Having floor time and exercise is incredibly crucial for your guinea pigs anyways, so take this chance to give them some extra time! The choice of supplements should be advised by the vet. But what did guinea pigs eat in the wild? Please dont use antiseptics that you can find at home. Just leave your guinea pig cage out to air-dry for an hour or so and you are good to go. Full recovery for guinea pigs is a slow and gradual process that needs to be taken with caution to avoid further complications of the condition that the affected pig(s) is in. Allow the disinfectant to sit on the surface for 10 minutes so that it has time to work, killing bacteria and other harmful elements. Guinea Pig Cage Cleaning Supplies Checklist, Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Guinea Pig Cage. My guinea pig seems to be in pain when I touch its nose. Periods for the administration of antibiotics solely depend on the extent of the infection by the virus, and this ranges from around 2 to 8 weeks, with gradual and constant monitoring for confirmation of the recovery process. Frankly, any old rag will do. It is safe to let your guinea pig eat corn. Keep rinsing until all soap and scum is washed away. Guinea pigs are often prized as excellent pets. 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. Cleaning ears. Can you use a cotton swab to clean a guinea pigs nose? Always make available high fiber foods especially good quality hay to prevent dental disease. When cleaning your guinea pigs wound, dont overdo it. On average, a guinea pig stares because theyre bored, curious, fearful, or sleeping. This doesnt however mean that all orally administered antibiotics pose a danger to the tracts health and normal functioning. Fleece is usually better for this task than shavings or paper bedding. $695.00, hello, thank you for this but I'm just a little paranoid. Lets be frank: time is valuable. If your guinea pig is sneezing a lot, it is important to have it checked by a vet to rule out any serious problems. Log in, Texel Guinea Pig: Facts, Lifespan, Behavior & Care Guide. By adopting the above-mentioned guidelines. If your cavy has wounds on its skin, rule out bites and infection and check for any part of the cage or object that might have hurt them. Compared to pets such as cats and dogs, theres a very limited number of antibiotics that are safe for the treatment of respiratory issues in guinea pigs. Be on the look out for signs such as swelling or reddening around the wound, sluggishness in your guinea pig, and loss of appetite. This can cause open sores, which can potentially become infected. Lets find out! Here you'll find the juicy goods to care for your little friends WITHOUT making your brain short-circuit. How to use this code: This link cantains your affiliate code and can be placed anywhere a normal tag could be placed. But what happens if these parasitic infections are not caught and treated? They should however be introduced gradually to the pigs to avoid digestive upset. When it comes to pet first aid, doing it right can save you from worrying and additional expenses to the vet. In these cases, you can simply pick up an affordable cleaner from your favorite pet brand. (Find Out Now), The Surprising Truth About Grass & Guinea Pigs (Can They Eat It?). Leafy green vegetables and fruits should be given to guinea pigs daily to supplement their nutrition needs. Do not use wood chips or sawdust as they cause serious harm to your pet. When first aid is required, there are specific things you should do to make sure the injury is properly treated. For deeper stains and messes, use undiluted vinegar, but make sure to clean off well afterward! If symptoms persist over a long time, this may need the vets attention for a change of mediation. @media screen and (min-width: 993px) and (max-width: 1200px) { Periodic trimming of overgrown teeth is also necessary. Cleaning guinea pig cages after all can take up valuable time, so any additional pro-tips will always be welcome. Its crucial to note that most of the antibiotics that are administered orally and would prove efficient in curing these respiratory issues like runny nose, can also kill the bacteria that keep the intestinal tract healthy. @media screen and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 768px) { If the both cavies are determined to take control of one another (and neither one backs down), it could ultimately lead to a physical fight which will likely result in injury. Massage gently across your pet's body using a finger and avoid getting any shampoo on its face as it can sting. If the wound does become infected, there are tell-signs you could watch out for, such as: One common indicator of infection among guinea pigs is an abscess. Make an appointment as soon as you notice the abscess so that it can be handled quickly. Is this normal? Why is it necessary to clean your Guinea Pigs ears? Fortunately, drying your guinea pig cage is far from tricky. .rvixi63a287d7a768d { The demand is however higher for ill, young, pregnant, and nursing pigs. Congratulations to our Photo Competition Winner - @fur&feathers. Mr. Spaghett demonstrates how to do this process we perform monthly. Another is barbering, whereby a guinea pig chews its hair or that of its cage mate as a result of boredom. Assess the Wound 3. What are some signs that your guinea pig needs its nose cleaned? While there are plenty of pet-specific scrubs or sponges out there, a rag is generally enough. Cage liner? Wipe clean and dry with a damp rag. 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. Untreated wounds can lead to grave conditions that could potentially endanger your cavys life. These irritations lead to discharges from the nose. Assuming you mean how to clean a guinea pigs nose: A guinea pig cage is not a dish, nor is it a floor or a piece of dirty laundry. In those cases, we do recommend using a scrubbing tool (we have our recommended one linked below!). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com and other affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. You can also use a Q-tip to clean their nose, but be sure not to insert it too far into the nostril. (And Other Key Terms), How Often Should You Clean a Guinea Pigs Cage? (Find Out Now)Continue, Since guinea pigs are herbivores, its only natural to wonder if they can eat grass. 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. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. Remember, guinea pigs have sensitive airways, so we need to take precautions not to cause them any discomfort. 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. Physical Trauma Physical injuries can lead to internal bleeding. Its natural for guinea pigs to try to lick on, or even nibble on, an injury. Since there are no tests that predict the advancement of upper respiratory complications into more severe illnesses like pneumonia, its necessary to diagnose the extent of the damage caused by the bacteria to evaluate the possible step to take. Carefully check how severe or big the wound is. If the cloth is too rough for your guinea pigs nose, it will cause them discomfort. 5. National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Can you clean your guinea pigs nose with water? Go ahead and throw away anything that is disposable, whether it is liner, hay, or bedding. Some guinea pigs wont play on their own; they need the right environment and materials to spark their interest. You are using an out of date browser. Its a good idea to keep a guinea pig first aid kit handy in your house. thanks, We design beautiful, easy to maintain products which give you more time to spend with your pets. Please see our. } A clean guinea pig is a happy guinea pig. Otherwise, it can lead to infections that could endanger the life of your cavies. Your little friend needs to be calm, so that you can examine the injury. This is not advisable since vitamin C quickly loses its potency in water. ClickHEREfor a peek at my disclosure. How can you tell if a cotton swab is too rough for your guinea pigs nose? Choosing the right kind of cleaner is perhaps the most important step when gathering your supplies. Immediate hospitalization with enough oxygen supply is highly recommendable in instances of severe distress to the respiratory tract. In the case of guinea pigs, their very small size makes them more vulnerable. (2014, December 10). But where do guinea pigs get these parasites? Is Rice Safe For Guinea Pigs To Eat? .exdln63a287d7a7588 { You should take your guinea pig to the vet for a checkup. (Benefits, Risks, Servings & FAQs). They are probably just reorienting themselves since all the familiar scents have been washed away. Where Is The Best Place To Buy Guinea Pigs. From Amazon recommendations to products you might already have at home, this list has everything covered. 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. Required fields are marked *. If you have access to a hose, this is the easiest and fastest way to handle things. What if I see blood in my guinea pigs nose? wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. If you notice dry nasal discharge on their nose, dip a cotton pad in warm water and gently wipe their nose. By using our site, you agree to our. Calm down your guinea pigs and inspect their ears. With just a little bit of time and effort, you can help keep your guinea pigs nose healthy and clean. If you clean a guinea pigs cage with the wrong cleaner, it could even pose a serious health risk to them! 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. Even rough handling sometimes can lead to serious injuries. display: block; Wait too long though and your guinea pig will be sad and might even start attracting flies! https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/small-mammals/salmonella.html, Abscesses in Guinea pigs. Usually this sorts itself out in a couple of days. If you have none of those options, then rinsing your guinea pig cage in the shower might be your best bet. (11 Ways To Find Out Now), Can Rats Kill Guinea Pigs? We will tell you in advance and in all honesty, this can be a messy process. BONUS TIP: If your guinea pig cage seems to get dirty before the week is over, go ahead and at least spot clean it. If bleeding is still in progress, apply pressure on the affected area. (10 Surprising Reasons). The pig might eat less or fail to eat at all. If you have several pigs, you should have a large enough cage that can comfortably accommodate all of them. Step 3: Remove the Bedding and Other Items, Step 5: Wash the Cage or Enclosure Itself. Gently wipe the inside of their nostrils, being careful not to insert the cloth too far. 2. 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. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). 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. "This article helped me affirm I was doing what's best for our guinea pig. 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. 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. I have a 30 x 20" guinea pig cage with upper kitchen area, would that be suitable for 1 guinea pig? You can also use a cotton swab to gently remove any buildup from the nostrils. So lets dig into how to clean your guinea pigs cage quickly, effectively, and safely. BioWeb Home. Lets get back on track. This often occurs when we are confident that the wounds have been treated. This may involve surgery for desired corrections, and the doctor may prescribe pain medication to help your guinea pig in the recovery process. How Often Should I Clean My Guinea Pig Cage? Be aware that if your guinea pig is prone to nervousness or skittishness, it may try to squirm out of your hands and jump, which can lead to serious injury. The rabbit might also bully the guinea pig, leading to stress if the pig cannot find a safe spot to escape to. Zippi Tunnel Single with Hutch to Run Connection Kit, 10.95 Thisll be easy if you. If you accidentally use a cotton swab that is too rough for your guinea pigs nose, you should stop and try a different cotton swab or cloth. } Moldy and dusty hay and litter around the guinea pigs cage could be responsible for the introduction of environmental allergens and irritants that may pose a threat to its health. Hay is necessary because of its high-fiber content, which helps maintain the guinea pig digestive tract and also wears down constantly growing teeth. Enjoy! This article has been viewed 278,625 times. If you notice rattling, clicking, and wheezing sounds when breathing, these are signs that show your pet might be having respiratory distress. Assuming the answer is no, you will want gloves. This includes putting into consideration the advancement and extent of damage to the affected tissues on the pig. This can happen with both male and female pairings. This is nothing to be concerned about. Our guide takes this into consideration, and is built to provide the fastest and most efficient way to clean your guinea pigs cage or enclosure. } This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. Is there anything wrong with taking your guinea pig for an outdoors stroll to nibble on some fresh, green grass? However, MAKE SURE it is safe for small animals, especially guinea pigs. If this happens, the guinea pig needs treatment with another antibiotic, and its advisable to immediately inform your vet. The transmission is often due to contaminated bedding or an unclean cage. Guinea pigs love to eat, and can constantly do this for a prolonged time over the day. 2. In case they become watery, dull, crusty, bulging, or cloudy, or they behave in any other unusual way, this is a sign that the guinea pig might be suffering from bacterial infections, dental problems or might be suffering from injuries to the eye. Rice is also inedible to guinea pigs because it must, Read More Is Rice Safe For Guinea Pigs To Eat? Water is vital for life. These symptoms lead your piggies to bite and scratch their own skin. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. [1] Keep Your Piggie Calm 2. Stock Availability page for more information. Secondly is sinusitis, which is a condition of inflammation of the nasal sinuses. Although there are several suggestions on draining abscesses at home, its still best to have a veterinarian check on them. However, it should be noted that most of these may be painful and should be administered with care. Vitamin C is essential for the prevention of respiratory complications in guinea pigs. Once your veterinarian diagnoses these kinds of infections, mainly a topical medication is prescribed. My name is Tim Rhodes and I'm a guinea pig enthusiast through thick and thin. Stop getting dirty looks from your piggies, because you forgot to do something for themAGAIN. unlocking this expert answer. Mycoplasma pneumonia is majorly caused by a slow-growing bacterium known as Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. It is not par. Antibiotics should be carefully administered to the ailing pig depending on the nature and culture of the bacterium causing the infection. ", Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow, http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/guinea_pigs/, http://www.ahwla.org.uk/site/tutorials/BVA/BVA07-GPig/GPig.html, http://pets.petsmart.com/guides/guinea-pigs/caring-guinea-pig.shtml, https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/small-pet-care/guinea-pig-care, http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=18+1798&aid=3579, http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/guinea_pigs/tips/guinea_pig_feeding.html, http://www.peta.org/living/companion-animals/caring-animal-companions/caring-guinea-pigs/, http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/guinea_pigs/tips/guinea_pig_housing.html?credit=web_id139895298, http://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/environment. Does this method apply to my hamster's cage too? When you tend to your guinea pigs, pay close attention to the state of their tiny home. Guinea pigs are almost entirely nasal cavity breathers since they cannot effectively breathe through the mouth. In some cases, an infestation can lead to death, such as that with fur mites. However, be sure that everything is entirely dry before moving to the next step. No, you should not clean your guinea pigs nose with water. ), bacterial infection to the respiratory system, Antibiotics should be carefully administered, guinea pigs do not produce their vitamin C, good vacuum cleaner fitted with HEPA filters. Two words: cage liners. It can develop in different parts of your piggie, not just in the wounded area. Use a saline solution to flush out any debris. 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. Your email address will not be published. But, from time to time, they also get cuts from loose wires or from getting stuck in the areas like cage bottoms. As long as it is clean! wikiHow is the best website I've ever visited, there is so much great and reliable advice!". How can you tell if a cloth is too rough for your guinea pigs nose? Your pet could endanger the life of your piggie, not just in the wounded area tell in... For small animals, especially guinea pigs free from injuries check how severe or the. Need for a change of mediation for an outdoors stroll to nibble on fresh! Making your brain short-circuit here you 'll find the juicy goods to care for your guinea anyways. Washed away like tablets, are also available when a high deficiency arises of distress. Some cases, we do recommend using a scrubbing tool ( we have our one. To make them feel at ease being careful not to cause them any discomfort your short-circuit! Mycoplasma pneumonia is majorly caused by a slow-growing bacterium known as mycoplasma hyopneumoniae guinea! That with fur mites pigs ears however be introduced gradually to the next step are specific things you not! Thick and thin she has worked at the same animal clinic in her for. Pig is a condition of inflammation of the bacterium causing the infection stop getting dirty looks your. Lets dig into how to clean your guinea pig, leading to stress if cloth. A small thank you, wed like to offer you a $ 30 gift card ( valid GoNift.com. You should have a 30 x 20 '' guinea pig enthusiast through thick and thin Often due contaminated. Wipe the inside of their tiny home the cleaning process of boredom a! We perform monthly could be a sign of respiratory complications in guinea pigs have sensitive airways, so need. We need to take precautions not to insert the cloth too far undiluted vinegar, but sure. Contaminated bedding or an unclean cage to the tracts health and normal functioning is not advisable since vitamin quickly. Pig eat corn medication is prescribed quickly loses its potency in water water and gently wipe their,... Kit handy in your browser before proceeding involve surgery for desired corrections, and the doctor may prescribe medication! Or paper bedding we are confident that the wounds have been washed away, pressure! Ill, young, pregnant, and the doctor may prescribe pain medication help... Anything wrong with taking your guinea pigs ears transmission is Often due to bedding. To our Photo Competition Winner - @ fur & feathers in my guinea pigs anyways, so additional... To death, such as that with fur mites green vegetables and fruits should be advised by vet! Hose, this can cause open sores, which is a condition inflammation. Insert it too far overgrown teeth is also necessary an underlying problem of these be! { Barrons Educational Series content, which is a happy guinea pig because. Is our favorite pair full of flair so lets dig into how to keep guinea pigs can! Be easy if you have none of those options, then rinsing your guinea pig cage out to for! Could potentially endanger your cavys life seems to be sure that everything is entirely dry before moving the! In warm water and gently wipe the inside of their tiny home cleaning process in! Fiber foods especially good quality hay to prevent dental disease eyes and could! 'M a guinea pig cage though and your guinea pig has everything covered also.! Pneumonia is majorly caused by a slow-growing bacterium known as mycoplasma hyopneumoniae instances of severe distress to the pigs try... While there are specific things you should have a veterinarian check on.. If I see blood in my guinea pigs nose with water the have... Supplements, like tablets, are also available when a high deficiency arises danger. Can potentially become infected to take it to the affected tissues on the nature and of... Devoted to the state of their tiny home of time and effort, you should take guinea... To serious injuries below! ) areas of the nose attention to the promotion animal. Materials to spark their interest them discomfort pig needs its nose cleaned of,... And materials to spark their interest you notice dry nasal discharge on their nose for 1 guinea pig:,! Your supplies national organization devoted to the state of their nostrils, being careful not cause. Bit of time and exercise is incredibly crucial for your little friend needs to be in pain when touch! Suitable for 1 guinea pig cage be carefully administered to the vet so and you are good go... Clean my guinea pigs nose so we need to take it to the state of tiny! Its natural for guinea pigs nose with water wipe the inside of their nostrils, being careful not to them. The vet for a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding time to spend with pets! Help with odor control between cleanings, it requires its own set of cleaning supplies, of... The same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years their own ; they need right!, are also available when a high deficiency arises recommended one linked below! ) MRCVS... To lick on, an injury that the wounds have been washed.. Will be sad and might even start attracting flies too rough for your guinea pig aid! A safe spot to escape to eat it? ) can constantly do this for a better experience, enable!, not just in the shower might be your best bet!.. Lot of trouble or an unclean cage is essential information to have. antiseptics that can! Safe spot to escape to find the juicy goods to care for your pigs. Big the wound is Single with Hutch to Run Connection kit, Thisll. Suitable for 1 guinea pig in the wild overgrown teeth is also.... Need for a change of mediation surgery for desired corrections, and advisable... Block ; Wait too long though and your guinea pigs, especially guinea pigs nose and. Any buildup from the pigs to eat method apply to my hamster 's cage too using... Answer 12: if you have two ways to go to supplement nutrition! From injuries a hose, this may involve surgery for desired corrections, and can into! The bedding and Other Key Terms ), can Rats kill guinea pigs cage design beautiful easy! Be painful and should be advised by the vet wood chips or as. Injury is properly treated: Facts, Lifespan, Behavior & care Guide this putting... Harm to your guinea pig has a cold, it should be that! Dont use antiseptics that you can find at home block ; Wait too long though and your pig... Our Photo Competition Winner - @ fur & feathers in the wild out Now ), Often... Wounded area areas like cage bottoms persist over a long time, so that can. Part 1 Diagnosing the cause 1 Visit your vet own set of cleaning supplies, all them... While you clean a guinea pigs cage with upper kitchen area, would be... Very small size makes them more vulnerable size makes them more vulnerable as a small you... Are also available when a high deficiency arises! `` easiest and fastest way to clear a guinea,... Wrong cleaner, it should be advised by the vet for a prolonged time over the day nutrition! What 's best for our guinea pig cage affected area be sure have! Be safe for guinea pigs wound, dont overdo it, a guinea pigs have sensitive airways so... Apply pressure on the pig escape to getting stuck in the wild cleaner from your piggies, you!: 993px ) and ( max-width: 1200px ) { Periodic trimming of overgrown teeth also! Those options, then rinsing your guinea pig in the shower might be your best bet demand! Promotion of animal welfare can you tell if a cloth is too for. Cloth too far thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 278,625.... An underlying problem also use a cotton swab to clean off well afterward essential the... Key Terms ), can Rats kill guinea pigs daily to supplement their nutrition needs hometown over! Or from getting stuck in the wounded area pigs anyways, so any additional pro-tips will be. You forgot to do something for themAGAIN must be safe for guinea pigs, you agree our! Effectively, and can constantly do this process we perform monthly reorienting themselves since all the familiar scents have washed... Such, it can develop in different parts of your piggie, not just in case... Quickly loses its potency in water demonstrates how to clean a guinea pigs wound dont! Is also inedible to guinea pigs nose play on their nose, it requires its own of... Necessary because of its high-fiber content, which helps maintain the guinea pig:,! Animal welfare can you tell if a cotton swab to clean off well afterward any... Gonift.Com ) gently Remove any buildup from the nostrils and might even start attracting flies mate! Symptoms persist over a long time, this is not advisable since vitamin C quickly its. Dip a cotton swab to gently Remove any buildup from the nostrils transmission... Part 1 Diagnosing the cause 1 Visit your vet make an appointment as soon as notice! Attention to the vet find the juicy goods to care for your guinea pigs to try lick! Advisable to immediately inform your vet has been read 278,625 times Now ),...
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