proven.
Diarrhea prevention (using antibiotics correctly, treating intestinal parasites, and avoiding dietary indiscretion) is preferred to treatment.
Cystitis and urolithiasis are occasionally seen; they are more common in guinea pigs than in other rodents.
Clinical signs: hematuria, wet perineum, bloody discharge from genitalia, blood in the cage
Diagnosis: palpable urinary calculi, radiographic exam, urinalysis, and/or urine culture
Cystitis treatment: appropriate antibiotics
Urolithiasis treatment: surgical removal of calculi
Signs of vitamin C deficiency (scurvy)
Guinea pigs require exogenous vitamin C
Clinical signs: subcutaneous and joint hemorrhages, anorexia, poor hair coat, weight loss, lethargy, arthralgia, and nasal discharge. Always suspect hypovitaminosis C in any sick guinea pig.
Treatment: Vitamin C, 100 mg/guinea pig, IM or SC, daily (in hospital)
Prevention: Feed fresh pellets (guinea pig formula) and supplement the water with vitamin C
"Acute" anorexia and lethargy
"Acute" is a misnomer. Pet rodents have a well-developed preservation response and will mask signs of illness until compensation no longer is possible.
Geriatric conditions are common causes. Normal life spans are:
Guinea pig: 4 8 years
Gerbils: 2 4 years
Rats, mice, & hamsters: 1 3 years
Complete history, physical examination, and subsequent laboratory/clinical tests are essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Prognosis is grave, if pet is moribund upon presentation.
vinid = JA013008, date1298
Journal info: ISSN 8750-7943; ID=J035, VM
All rights reserved, copyright, Veterinary Information Network, Inc., 1998