Guinea pigs are prey animals that hide illness until they are quite sick. Because they are small, a guinea pig that stops eating can become seriously unwell within a day or two. A vet who regularly treats guinea pigs (also called cavies) can catch dental, skin and respiratory problems early and guide you on diet, which prevents most of them.
This guide is part of our exotic pet vet guide.
Key takeaways
- Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C. They need it every day from fresh vegetables or a supplement.
- Like rabbits, their teeth grow continuously, so dental disease is common.
- A guinea pig that stops eating should see a vet the same day.
- Weigh your guinea pigs weekly. Weight loss is often the first sign of illness.
Warning signs your guinea pig needs a vet
| Sign | Possible cause | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Not eating or few droppings | Dental disease, gut slowdown, pain | Same day |
| Laboured breathing, crackles, eye or nose discharge | Respiratory infection (pneumonia) | Same day |
| Drooling, wet chin, dropping food | Overgrown teeth | Within a day or two |
| Hair loss, intense scratching, scabs | Mites or fungal infection | Soon |
| Swollen, sore feet | Bumblefoot (pododermatitis) | Soon |
| Squeaking while urinating, blood in urine | Bladder stones or infection | Same day |
| Swollen joints, reluctance to move, rough coat | Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) | Soon |
| Weight loss over weeks | Many causes, including dental disease | Book a visit |
What a guinea pig checkup covers
- Weight and body condition
- Front teeth and, with an otoscope, the back molars
- Eyes, ears, nose and breathing
- Skin and coat for mites, lice and fungal infection
- Feet and nails
- Abdomen for bladder stones or masses, and in sows, ovarian cysts
- Diet review, especially hay and vitamin C sources
Diet and vitamin C
Unlimited grass hay should form most of a guinea pig’s diet, along with fresh vegetables daily and a measured amount of guinea pig pellets. Vitamin C rich vegetables such as bell peppers and leafy greens help meet their needs. Vitamin C added to drinking water degrades quickly and is not a reliable source. Ask your vet whether your guinea pig needs a supplement.
How to find a guinea pig vet
- Search for an exotic or small mammal vet and check guinea pigs are a listed service.
- Ask how often the vet does guinea pig dental work and anaesthesia.
- Ask guinea pig rescues and breeders which vets they use.
See our small mammal vet guide for questions that apply across hamsters, rats and other small pets.
How often should a guinea pig see a vet?
Plan a check soon after adoption, then annual exams. From around 4 years of age, or if your guinea pig has dental or bladder problems, every six months is sensible. Guinea pigs commonly live 5 to 7 years.
Frequently asked questions
Do guinea pigs need vaccines?
No, there are no routine vaccinations for guinea pigs.
Should guinea pigs be neutered?
Neutering males lets them live with females without breeding. Spaying females can treat or prevent ovarian cysts, which are common in older sows. Discuss risks and benefits with an experienced vet.
Related guides
This guide is general information for pet owners and is not a substitute for an examination by a licensed veterinarian. If your pet is unwell, contact your vet.
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