Common Disease Conditions of the Guinea Pig

Hypovitaminosis C--Scurvy--This problem is unfortunately all too common from lack of proper diet (see diet section). Signs of scurvy are poor appetite, swollen and painful joints and ribs, reluctance to move, poor bone/teeth development, and spontaneous bleeding, especially of the gums. This disease can be fatal. Subclinical deficiencies can often predispose to other diseases. 

Guinea pig diets do have vitamin C. However, even when stored correctly, fresh pellets lose 1/2 their potency in 6 weeks. Vitamins degrade in the pellets making it necessary to supplement with fresh sources (see diet section). 

Malocclusion--Guinea pigs, like children, can have teeth that are not in proper alignment. As the teeth grow, they may cause injury to the soft tissues such as the tongue and gums. This results in excessive salivation or drooling. To correct this problem, periodic tooth trims may be necessary. The tooth of a guinea pig grows constantly, so trimming once will only temporarily alleviate the problem. Since a guinea pig's mouth is so small and they are very excitable, often a short gas anesthetic is required. If the soft tissue damage is great, force feedings and antibiotics may be necessary. 

Barbaring--This is a problem when several pigs are housed together. Sometimes one pig will be dominant and show this by chewing on the less dominant pigs' coats. This is easily determined by observing hair loss on all pigs but one. The only correction is to separate the pigs if it becomes a serious problem. 

Heat Stress (Stroke)--Heat stress is a real threat to pigs that are in temperatures of 85+ degrees Farenheit, high humidity (70%), inadequate ventilation, overcrowding, and other stresses. Pigs that are overweight or heavily furred are even more susceptible. 

Signs of heat stress include panting, slobbering, weakness, reluctance to move, convulsions, and death. Make sure your pig has adequate ventilation and shade. In the summer, if the air conditioning is out, a fan directed over ice and/or a cool water misting can help relieve the heat.


Pneumonia--is one of the more common bacterial diseases seen in guinea pigs. Respiratory diseases are often seen in pigs under stress (ex: improper diet, management). Symptoms include difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, eye discharge, lethargy, and poor appetite. The bacteria causing the disease can often be isolated and antibiotic choices made or changed. 

Bacterial Enteritis--This condition is often characterized by diarrhea. The normal "good" bacteria in the gut can get over run by the "bad" bacteria. Often, greens which are not washed properly carry the harmful bacteria to the pig. Other signs that can be seen include lethargy and weight loss. Sudden death can also occur before any signs.

Bacterial Pododermatitis--This foot infection is seen commonly in pigs kept in wire cages without any solid areas to "rest" their feet. Front feet seem to be most commonly affected. The pig will usually require antibiotics and sometimes bandaging. Signs usually noted are swelling, lameness, and reluctance to move.

Antibiotic Sensitivity--Guinea pigs are extremely sensitive to certain antibiotics. Please do not ever attempt to treat your pig without prior consultation. Several antibiotics often given to other animals can be lethal to guinea pigs. When your pig is on antibiotics, it is advisable to supplement the diet with 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 cc) plain yogurt twice daily. Continue this at least 2 days past the antibiotic treatments. Yogurt contains many "good" bacteria that help repopulate the gut with the desired normal flora. Remember, NEVER TREAT WITHOUT CONSULTATION WITH YOUR VETERINARIAN FIRST!

Please do not hesitate to call your veterinarian if any questions or problems arise. No question is ever too slight if you do not know the answer. No problem is ever small if it concerns the health and happiness of your pet guinea pig.

ÓTammy Parker, 2002