Common Guinea Pig Diseases and Their Symptoms

1 Digestive System Diseases

Diarrhea is common, from bad diet, infection, or gut dysfunction — watery or mushy stool, sometimes foul-smelling; watch mood and appetite and see a vet for severe cases.

Constipation, usually from a single diet, lack of exercise, or slower gut motion, shows as hard stools and straining and can block the intestine. Offer varied food, enough fiber, and encourage movement.

Gastrointestinal parasites such as hookworms and tapeworms cause poor appetite, weight loss, and diarrhea; regular deworming is key.

2 Respiratory Diseases

Pneumonia comes from infection, air pollution, or low immunity, with rapid breathing, runny nose, cough, lethargy, and reduced appetite. Keep the cage clean and aired and boost immunity.

Bronchitis, also from infection or pollution, causes runny nose and fever with lowered appetite, much like pneumonia. Treatment centers on antibiotics, anti-inflammation, and keeping airways clear.

3 Skin Diseases

Bacterial or fungal infection, tied to a dirty, damp, or low-immunity environment, brings itching, red patches, hair loss, and scaling. Keep the skin dry and add vitamins.

External parasites — fleas, mites — cause ulcers, hair loss, and itching. Watch the skin and see a vet at the first abnormality.

4 Urinary Diseases

Cystitis and nephritis cause frequent urination, pain, and reduced or abnormal urine, sometimes blood. Give plenty of water, avoid irritating food, and use appropriate antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication.

5 How to Reduce Illness

1. Better husbandry: balanced nutrition with enough protein, vitamins, and minerals. 2. Clean environment: clean the cage often to limit mites, bacteria, and parasites. 3. Regular checkups: watch the body or visit a vet for early detection. 4. Strong immunity: good diet, exercise, and vitamins. 5. Prevention first. Know the common signs and act early, and keep the living space clean to avoid excess bacteria, fungus, and parasites.