What does it mean when my guinea pig keeps scratching?
Be sure that the veterinarian you are seeing has familiarity with guinea pigs, and if not, find one who does. The basic causes of itching in this species are mites, lice, ringworm (fungal infections) or allergic reactions to the bedding or wood shavings.
What makes a guinea pig itchy?
Trixacarus caviae mites (sarcoptic mange mite) can cause extreme clinical signs because they cause extreme itchiness. These mites cause such itchiness that your guinea pig may even go into seizures and die. “Sarcoptic mange mites can cause extreme clinical signs because they cause extreme itchiness.”
What kills mites on guinea pigs?
Your vet will prescribe a treatment with ivermectin or selamectin. Both of these can treat a mange mite infestation. Your vet will administer ivermectin with an injection, orally or topically. Because injections can be painful for guinea pigs, we recommend topical or oral treatment.
Why does my guinea pig keep scratching his face?
Their activity produces a big discomfort to guinea pigs so they need to scratch a lot. Lice may appear anywhere on the piggy’s body but the face is their favorite spot since the hair is the shortest there. If you suspect that your piggy has a lice infestation, seek vet help.
What does it mean when a guinea pig squeaks?
A shorter sounding, anxious purr may mean fear. Alternately, guinea pigs can signal fear by a high-pitched squeak or shriek. This sound also sounds like chattering teeth and signifies that your guinea pig is angry or aggressive.
What does it mean when a guinea pig purrs?
This is their way of showing approval as you gently pet them while holding them in your lap. A high-pitched, short squeak, however, can indicate pain, and a low-pitched purr can be your guinea pig’s way of letting you know that they are annoyed.
Why do guinea pigs do the things they do?
Guinea pigs, with their large heads, perpetual look of surprise and gleeful squeals, are definitely a pet to be seen and heard. But why do they do the things they do? Here are some common guinea pig behaviors explained, so you know what you are likely to come across when sharing your home with these popular pets. 1. Catch Me If You Can
Their activity produces a big discomfort to guinea pigs so they need to scratch a lot. Lice may appear anywhere on the piggy’s body but the face is their favorite spot since the hair is the shortest there. If you suspect that your piggy has a lice infestation, seek vet help.
Why does my guinea pig shake her bum?
Guinea pigs shaking their bum from one side to another (vibrating), is a common dominance behavior in guinea pigs. It is also known as rumble strutting, where they make such movement accompanied by a rumbling noise. Guinea pigs usually do so while making a mating call or showing dominance over other guinea pigs.
Why does my guinea pig make a chirping noise?
There’s no exact and verified reason as to why some Guinea pigs chirp. Some owners familiar with this sound may often associate it with traumatic or upsetting events in the past such as after a fight or when they lose a friend.
How can you tell if your guinea pig has a disease?
Signs and Symptoms of Common Guinea Pig Ailments. Also be aware of physical changes such as hair loss, constant itching or scratching, redness, swelling, or any other physical change. Monitor any change and speak with your veterinarian at any time you suspect there might be something off with your pet guinea pig.