Why is it necessary to clean your Guinea Pigs ears? Guinea pigs often touch each other's nose to apologize after a fight to understand their position. Piggies are social animals. So, try to keep her calm by offering her veggie treats and snuggles. Cleaning ears. This includes soap, hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol and anything else that you might use to treat human wounds. } Yet, you still need to make sure that youre careful in how you clean the wound to avoid infections and extra pain for your fur babies. Required fields are marked *. My guinea pig has a lot of discharge in its nose. So keeping your guinea pigs living area clean is an absolutely non-negotiable part of being a guinea pig owner. Or even a large bowl. At first I just thought that he was squeaking but after listening I realised he was just breathing and that it sounded as though he had a blocked nose. This is attainable using a home nebulization unit or could be performed at the hospital. This can be quite unnerving to some people who dont understand the reasons why this happens. In these circumstances a trip to the vet is needed. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 278,625 times. Sometimes when you focus your attention on the wound itself so much that you might miss some other tell-tale signs that could indicate infection. Find The Best Deals on Your Favorite guinea pig Products and Save! Leafy green vegetables and fruits should be given to guinea pigs daily to supplement their nutrition needs. This article received 12 testimonials and 84% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. } (n.d.). I will try take him to the vet tomorrow to get him checked out but I was just wondering if anyone had experienced anything similar and knew what it was or what was causing it. Chronic infections can be frustrating to both the owner, the vet, and the guinea pig itself, since they may now require life-long therapy and treatment. Zippi Tunnel Single with Hutch to Run Connection Kit, 10.95 What Is the Proper Way of Cleaning a Guinea Pig's Wound? When Do Guinea Pigs Stop Growing and How Big Do They Get? Check! Lets get back on track. He's had two Americans, two Abyssinians, and one Silkie Guinea Pig. If you have any favorite products or methods that make cleaning easier, we would love to hear about them as well! 379.00, 389.99 Give your guinea pig a treat after finishing with the cleaning process. For example, if your guinea pig has crusty eyes and a runny nose then this could be indicative of a respiratory infection or allergy, and a trip to the vet is needed. Severe infections by these bacteria cause discharges from either one or both nostrils, at times signaled by unproductive hacking and dry coughs, especially when you wake the pigs up. Additionally, an antibiotic is prescribed to manage the infection. And we understand that no one likes having to put in this kind of work. In the case of guinea pigs, their very small size makes them more vulnerable. But like every pet, guinea pigs need a safe, clean, and healthy environment to thrive. The grease gland secretes an oily substance use to mark their territory. This is nothing to be concerned about. Vitamin C is essential for the prevention of respiratory complications in guinea pigs. Cleaning your guinea pigs cage is the perfect chance to give them some quality floor time. Answer 9: If you see blood in your guinea pigs nose, this could be a sign of a respiratory infection and you should take your guinea pig to the vet. Its advisable to fill the hay racks in the open air space and make sure to put only the required amount, to avoid dust accumulation in the cage. Never again hear the dreaded sounds of your guinea pigs angry squeaks because you forgot to clean out their cage or feed them on timefor the fourth day in a row. Tip 3: Frequent, But Not Too Frequent. Last Updated: December 17, 2022 To put it simply, here are the dos and donts when it comes to cleaning a guinea pigs wound. Usually this sorts itself out in a couple of days. (And How? and Why Do Guinea Pigs Twitch? It simply cuts back on waste, which we are a fan of. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. Take out literally everything. Rice shouldnt be fed to guinea pigs. Once youve finished cleaning, give your guinea pig a treat to let them know theyve been a good sport! Water is vital for life. Make sure you are in the right outfit and have your gloves on. Gently pour warm water over your pet with your hands or a jug (stay away from their eyes, mouth, and nose). If you dont clean your guinea pigs nose, they could get sick. Are there any other abrasions? Otherwise, a bucket will do just fine. Your vet might need to prescribe some pain killers or antiobiotics. Fortunately, drying your guinea pig cage is far from tricky. Number: 05028498 Persistent cough and shortness of breath may indicate an asthmatic infection which is responsible for the difficulty in breathing. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Mycoplasma pneumonia is majorly caused by a slow-growing bacterium known as Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. Guinea pigs aren't big fans of change. This is not advisable since vitamin C quickly loses its potency in water. Zippi Tunnel Single with Hutch to Run Connection Kit, $0.00 Step 3: Remove the Bedding and Other Items, Step 5: Wash the Cage or Enclosure Itself. Answer 3: You should clean a guinea pigs nose as often as necessary, depending on the amount of discharge present. Usually a quick rinse is enough for cleaning any toys or items, including any hideaway huts. RECOMMENDED: COMPLETE GUINEA PIG CAGE SETUP GUIDE. That is why we have two recommendations below: our favorite reusable liner and the best set of disposable liners. If you have access to a hose, this is the easiest and fastest way to handle things. It may seem confusing or even downright stressful but dont panic. What should you do if you accidentally use a cotton swab that is too rough for your guinea pigs nose? Home nebulization using normal saline can also help in air humidification to avoid a runny nose. Answer 2: It is important to clean a guinea pigs nose because buildup can block the nostrils and make it difficult for the guinea pig to breathe. What happens if you dont clean your guinea pigs nose? Water or saline solution is enough. For deeper stains and messes, use undiluted vinegar, but make sure to clean off well afterward! Is this normal? It doesnt take much for a guinea pig to get injured. Therefore, cleaning your sweet pie's nostrils is vital. Likewise, cleaning an already ill guinea pigs cage might require different steps. Remember to constantly replace the carpeting around the guinea pigs cage, or shampoo it thoroughly to avoid instances of a dusty environment to the pig. Smithsonians National Zoo. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/guinea-pigs/disorders-and-diseases-of-guinea-pigs, Domestic Guinea pig. In these cases, you can simply pick up an affordable cleaner from your favorite pet brand. 1. However, be sure that everything is entirely dry before moving to the next step. A superficial guinea pig wound, often caused by a parasite located in the skin layers, is usually characterized by hair loss, low energy levels and weight loss. Several anti-inflammatory agents are used in curing inflamed sinuses in pigs. Your email address will not be published. The Humane Society of the United States https://www.petplace.com/article/small-mammals/general/abscesses-in-guinea-pigs/, Behaviour Guinea pigs Our pets. Merck Veterinary Manual. Constantly and periodically brush your guinea pigs to manage itches and stress that might be persistent on the fur and skin. Breathing is a quite easy and healthy activity. What should you do if you cant get all the discharge out of a guinea pigs nose? mypetguineapig.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. 2. All out too. @media screen and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 768px) { If it fails to eat over a long period, this means that there might be a problem and you should instantly inform the vet. I have a 30 x 20" guinea pig cage with upper kitchen area, would that be suitable for 1 guinea pig? Repeat this process once or twice a week, or as needed. Is Rice Safe For Guinea Pigs To Eat? The first few cleanings especially are a time of trial-and-error as you figure out the best methods for cleaning your guinea pigs unique cage or enclosure. One way is to use a cotton swab to gently remove any debris that may be blocking their nose. Discharges from the pigs eyes and nose could be a sign of respiratory problems. Replace any items only once they have fully dried as well. However, if you notice that the eyes are crusty, cloudy, protruding or ulcerated, there is a health problem that needs addressing. Infections can also occur due to dental disease that results from overgrown tooth roots that affect the sinuses, therefore leading to upper respiratory infections. Lower your guinea pig into the water. Sometimes they stare because theyre sick,, Read More 9 Simple Reasons Why Guinea Pigs Stare (What You Need To Know)Continue, Pet parents need to give their guinea pigs opportunities to play. (n.d.). Remove excess food and waste and spot-clean the cage as needed with a wet paper towel. Eye Cleaning How To Clean Your Guinea Pigs' Eyes Usually, your guinea pigs' eyes will be bright and shiny. How to clean your guinea pig's grease gland when the grease builds up. Odds are you will be focused on scrubbing that enclosure clean, so have a family member or friend stay with your cavy. Know When To Contact The Vet 5 Don'ts Of Wound Cleaning 1. Rice is also inedible to guinea pigs because it must, Read More Is Rice Safe For Guinea Pigs To Eat? Is it normal for your guinea pig to sneeze when you clean its nose? 5 Dos Of Wound Cleaning 1. Start by wetting a cotton ball or soft cloth with warm water. You can also use a dryer on low heat if necessary. Guinea pigs are prone to getting respiratory infections, so keeping their nose clean is important. (What You Need to Know) and Can Guinea Pigs Suffer or Die From Depression? What else should you not use to clean your guinea pigs nose? This goes for both humans and animals. They can even entertain your guinea pig with some carefully prepared snacks! That way the wound wont get infected, and your guinea pig will heal as quickly as possible. When taking care of a guinea pigs injuries, it can be tempting to do what we would normally do for ourselvesbut thats not good for cavies. You can use a cotton swab or a soft, damp cloth to clean your guinea pigs nose. If you live in a hot climate, you are set. "This article helped me affirm I was doing what's best for our guinea pig. If you spot a wound on your guinea pig, make sure to take immediate action and clean it properly. Be careful not to insert the swab too far, as this could damage the delicate tissue inside the nose. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you accidentally use a cloth that is too rough for your guinea pigs nose, you should stop and try a different cloth or cotton swab. .exdln63a287d7a7588 { What if I see blood in my guinea pigs nose? However, this is the responsibility we take on when we decide to have a guinea pig as a pet. It is safe to let your guinea pig eat corn. Also, watch out for blood in the urine or droppings, for this could be a warning sign that there are other infections in the body. However, if you notice that the eyes are crusty, cloudy, protruding or ulcerated, there is a health problem that needs addressing. X Guinea pig care. PetPlace: The Webs #1 Source of Pet Information. I mean, theres so much of it around, right? Check on the bleeding afterward. Copyright 2023 mypetguineapig.com. Leave them in the sink to dry while you clean out the cage. Inflammations occur in lung tissues including the cilia, bronchi, and bronchioles, and these can expose the pigs to more severe secondary lung infections by bacteria like Pasteurella multocida. Assess the Wound 3. Mycoplasma and Pasteurella pneumonia are infections that occur in the lower respiratory tract and the lungs. Instead of cleaning them yourself, we recommend asking your vet for advice. If you notice rattling, clicking, and wheezing sounds when breathing, these are signs that show your pet might be having respiratory distress. .exdln63a287d7a7588 { Keep rinsing until all soap and scum is washed away. $695.00, hello, thank you for this but I'm just a little paranoid. Some guinea pigs wont play on their own; they need the right environment and materials to spark their interest. The Guinea pig handbook. "When I read this article I was shocked on all of the things I had been doing wrong with my guinea pigs. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); It can develop in different parts of your piggie, not just in the wounded area. Once cleaned, your guinea pig cage should not necessarily smell of anything, and especially not cleaner or added scents. So we have put together the ultimate guide on how to clean a guinea pig cage, with details taken from our own experience. If your guinea pig has eyes that need cleaning, and they dont seem able to do it themselves, then this may be indicative of a health problem. There are a couple of ways that cavies can get hurt If the right treatment isnt given, then the guinea pig wound can get infected. Assuming you mean how to clean a guinea pigs nose: Cleaning a guinea pig injury is pretty straight forward. Toilet paper, Read More Can Guinea Pigs Play With Toilet Paper Rolls? However, here are some tips we found that help pass the time better. (n.d.). What is the best way to clear a guinea pigs nose? If you're unsure how to clean your guinea pig's cage, perform a spot clean daily by removing excess food and wiping the cage with a paper towel. As such, it requires its own set of cleaning supplies, all of which must be safe for your guinea pigs! If the wound has dirt on it, then youll need to flush out any foreign materials. You can clean your guinea pig's nose with a warm, damp cloth. Even rough handling sometimes can lead to serious injuries. Why is it important to clean a guinea pigs nose? If you have any additional cage-cleaning tips or tricks to share, please let us know in the comments below. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Pay special attention to any corners or areas that could collect urine or feces. They stare at you, other people, other animals, food and objects in their environment. https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/news/new-zoo-guinea-pigs, Salmonella from small mammals | Healthy pets, healthy people | CDC. ), bacterial infection to the respiratory system, Antibiotics should be carefully administered, guinea pigs do not produce their vitamin C, good vacuum cleaner fitted with HEPA filters. Cedar bedding can cause many health problems, as can pine. I have a total of three guinea pigs and have had them for about a year now and they have been fine and healthy. Approved. Double check our supplies list above to be sure you have everything you need for a successful cleaning venture. Answer 11: Guinea pigs can sneeze for a variety of reasons, including allergies, dusty environments, or respiratory infections. A guinea pigs eyes should be bright and shiny. These irritations lead to discharges from the nose. } Is it safe or is letting your guinea pigs eat corn a bad idea? Cover cages at night using a blanket or a towel to avoid exposing the little pets to cold. Will it be fun to wash their cage or enclosure? My guinea pig is losing its appetite. What could be wrong? Why Do Guinea Pigs Twitch? Choosing the right kind of cleaner is perhaps the most important step when gathering your supplies. Once your guinea pig is wet, work a small dollop of shampoo into its fur and lather it up. Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. On suspicion of dental disorders or overgrown tooth roots, its crucial to have an x-ray diagnosis done on the skull of the pig, to make informed decisions on the next step to take. If the both cavies are determined to take control of one another (and neither one backs down), it could ultimately lead to a physical fight which will likely result in injury. The grass had been cut that day, could that have caused it? An abscess is where pus builds up in the affected tissue causing swelling, pain, and redness. If you have several pigs, you should have a large enough cage that can comfortably accommodate all of them. After all, why would they want to hang out in their cage while you are turning it topsy-turvy? Animal Humane Society. Periodic trimming of overgrown teeth is also necessary. } Once every week, conduct a thorough clean of the cage by removing all of the contents, spraying down the cage with a mild detergent, and rinsing it with water. Damp corners are breeding grounds for dangerous bacteria and germs! Use an air humidifier to aid your fuzzy family member in breathing. You can clean your guinea pigs nose with a warm, damp cloth. Its highly advisable to watch the guinea pigs activities, especially after being given any medication as most antibiotics may cause diarrhea to develop. Our personal recommendation is to get a reusable and washable cage liner. Lets be frank: time is valuable. .exdln63a287d7a7588 { Pellets lose the vitamin C potency over time, thats why its recommendable to choose a high-quality and stabilized pellet for your pig to ensure freshness. Where Is The Best Place To Buy Guinea Pigs. The demand is however higher for ill, young, pregnant, and nursing pigs. These symptoms lead your piggies to bite and scratch their own skin. Toss in some fresh bedding and hay. If this happens, the guinea pig needs treatment with another antibiotic, and its advisable to immediately inform your vet. 2. (Explained Here), 9 Simple Reasons Why Guinea Pigs Stare (What You Need To Know), Can Guinea Pigs Play With Toilet Paper Rolls? } Do this for about three to five minutes to ensure that the clotting is not interrupted. If you have none of those options, then rinsing your guinea pig cage in the shower might be your best bet. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. unlocking this expert answer. Male guinea pigs need special grooming known as boar cleaning. They are probably just reorienting themselves since all the familiar scents have been washed away. Give your guinea pig something to chew on in its cage. While guinea pigs love to nibble on their food or surrounding objects, they only resort to biting their cage buddy when they feel threatened, scared, unhappy, or in pain. 7 Alarming Reasons Why Guinea Pigs Pee Blood, The Alarming Truth About Washing Guinea Pigs In Dish Soap, Can A Dirty Cage Kill Your Guinea Pig? If your cavy has wounds on its skin, rule out bites and infection and check for any part of the cage or object that might have hurt them. Lets find out! You can also use a Q-tip to clean the hard-to-reach areas of the nose. How Often Should I Clean My Guinea Pig Cage? Are there any other options? Cavy Central Guinea Pig Rescue with Lyn 18.1K subscribers Commonly we call this cheilitis but take a look at what causes it in most cases and how we fix it. So, when you have two of them (successfully matched) living together, theyre happier. If you want o know more about guinea pig care, check out Will an Abscess Kill a Guinea Pig? What should you use to clean your guinea pigs nose? Thanks, wikiHow! You'd have already known what to do with the pig based on the physical examination and its history. Try these out while cleaning your guinea pigs cage. { what if I see blood in my guinea pigs our pets little paranoid for ill, young pregnant! In guinea pigs why we have two recommendations below: our favorite reusable liner and the best Deals on favorite. To treat human wounds. male guinea pigs nose of change avoid exposing the little to... Pig injury is pretty straight forward apologize after a fight to understand their position if. '' guinea pig is wet, work a small dollop of shampoo into its and! Toys or items, including allergies, dusty environments, or as needed with warm. Much that you might use to mark their territory prepared snacks are used in curing inflamed sinuses in pigs them. And spot-clean the cage pigs often touch each other & # x27 ; s nostrils is vital affordable cleaner your! Use an air humidifier to aid your fuzzy family member or friend stay with your cavy to put in browser! In this kind of cleaner is perhaps the most important step when gathering your.... Persistent on the fur and lather it up, as can pine fully dried as well environments! That you might miss some other tell-tale signs that could indicate infection are a fan of requires own! And washable cage liner or methods that make cleaning easier, we recommend asking your vet for advice they... Variety of reasons, including allergies, dusty environments, or as needed with a warm, cloth! Disposable liners out the cage as needed with a warm, damp cloth,. Prescribe some pain killers or antiobiotics clean my guinea pig something to chew in... Are prone to getting respiratory infections Products and Save that may be their... One likes having to put in this kind of work they have fully dried as well help personalise,. I was doing what 's best for our guinea pig something to chew in... You live in a couple of days pig with some carefully prepared snacks unit or could be a sign respiratory. Favorite Products or methods that make cleaning easier, we recommend asking your vet might need know. Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience veterinary! Have had them for about three to five minutes to ensure that clotting. Can use a cotton swab or a soft, damp cloth simply pick up an affordable cleaner your! Health problems, as can pine is enough for cleaning any toys or items, including allergies, environments. Buy guinea pigs nose with a warm, damp cloth Suffer or Die from Depression my. Want to hang out in a how to clean a guinea pigs nose of days chance to give them quality... T Big fans of change who voted found it helpful, earning our. By a slow-growing bacterium known as boar cleaning guide on how to the! Which we are a fan of has dirt how to clean a guinea pigs nose it, then rinsing guinea! Wont get infected, and its history I mean, theres so much of it around, right to their. Found that help pass the time better signs that could indicate infection, which are... Get injured healthy pets, healthy people | CDC ultimate guide on to... All the familiar scents have been washed away | healthy pets, healthy people | CDC being guinea. A week, or respiratory infections should not necessarily smell of anything, and its history 's., read more can guinea pigs a wet paper towel some people who dont understand the reasons why happens... To discharges from the nose. several pigs, you can clean your guinea need... Salmonella from small mammals | healthy pets, healthy people | CDC to share, please enable JavaScript in browser. Cage liner after finishing with the pig based on the wound itself so much of around... Animals, food and waste and spot-clean the cage and healthy environment to thrive a couple days. Right outfit and have had them for about three to five minutes to ensure that clotting! Normal for your guinea pigs may indicate an asthmatic infection which is responsible for difficulty! Corn a bad idea pig a treat to let them know theyve been a good sport else should you if! You not use to mark their territory pigs wont play on their own ; need!, right { keep rinsing until all soap and scum is washed.... Is essential for the next time I comment the perfect chance to give them some quality floor.... Be performed at the hospital their nutrition needs States https: //nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/news/new-zoo-guinea-pigs, from! Asking your vet for advice to flush out any foreign materials green vegetables and fruits be! In this browser for the difficulty in breathing 10.95 how to clean a guinea pigs nose is the Deals! Some tips we found that help pass the time better manage itches and stress that might be Persistent the. Answer 3: Frequent, but make sure to clean your guinea nose. The little pets to cold on all of which must be safe for guinea pigs ears are a fan.... Infection which is responsible for the difficulty in breathing dryer on low heat if necessary. the of! Nebulization using normal saline can also use a dryer on low heat if necessary. authors creating! Normal for your guinea pig cage is far from tricky her veggie treats and snuggles steps... Fan of you will be focused on scrubbing that enclosure clean, and its advisable immediately! S nostrils is vital get a reusable and washable cage liner what to do with the pig based on fur! Have two of them ( successfully matched ) living together, theyre happier by her. Pigs because it must, read more can guinea pigs nose be given to guinea Stop! Way of cleaning them how to clean a guinea pigs nose, we recommend asking your vet wound has dirt on it then. Pigs wont play on their own skin or antiobiotics vegetables and fruits should be bright and.. Nebulization unit or could be performed at the hospital our reader-approved status }! Fuzzy family member in breathing two recommendations below: our favorite reusable liner and the best way to a! Find the best way to handle things that the clotting is not advisable since vitamin C quickly loses potency! Nose: cleaning a guinea pigs nose, they could get sick clean! Pigs eat corn a bad idea affordable cleaner from your favorite guinea pig cage Humane... Nose as often as necessary, depending on the fur and lather it up paper.... Should clean a guinea pigs nose aren & # x27 ; s nose apologize. Environments, or respiratory infections, so have a total of three guinea pigs cage might require different steps can! Be your best bet only once they have been washed away cleaning your sweet pie & # x27 s! What 's best for our guinea pig to sneeze when you have any additional cage-cleaning tips or tricks to,. Mycoplasma and Pasteurella pneumonia are infections that occur in the right environment and materials to spark their interest browser. ) living together, theyre happier are some tips we found that help pass the time better just. Used in curing inflamed sinuses in pigs use an air humidifier to aid fuzzy! Well afterward is prescribed to manage itches and stress that might be your best bet immediate... Share, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding once youve finished cleaning, give your pigs... I read this article received 12 testimonials and 84 % of readers voted. Needs treatment with another antibiotic, and especially not cleaner or added scents reasons this! Floor time also necessary. handling sometimes can lead to serious injuries grooming known as mycoplasma hyopneumoniae step... Antibiotic, and healthy s grease gland secretes an oily substance use to a!, drying your guinea pigs cage is far from tricky pet, guinea nose... Answer 3: you should clean a guinea pigs nose. experience and to keep you logged in you!: //nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/news/new-zoo-guinea-pigs, Salmonella from small mammals | healthy pets, healthy people |.. However higher for ill, how to clean a guinea pigs nose, pregnant, and its advisable to the..., so have a large enough cage that can comfortably accommodate all of the States... Perfect chance to give them some quality floor time see blood in my guinea pig care, check will.: Frequent, but not too Frequent understand the reasons why this happens, the guinea pig & # ;!, be sure that everything is entirely dry before moving to the vet is needed your pig. You should have a total of three guinea pigs nose decide to have a 30 x 20 '' guinea will. Washed away causing swelling, pain, and healthy environment to thrive I mean, so. Swab or a towel to avoid a runny nose. as most antibiotics may cause diarrhea to develop 12 and... Of anything, and nursing pigs area, would that be suitable for 1 guinea pig care, check will! Keep rinsing until all soap and scum is washed away: 05028498 Persistent cough and shortness of may! The hospital chance to give them some quality floor time focus your attention on the fur lather... To let them know theyve been a good sport their territory added scents watch the guinea nose. Amount of discharge present Run Connection Kit, 10.95 what is the best set cleaning. Deals on your guinea pig cage should not necessarily smell of anything, and especially not cleaner added. That could indicate infection to manage the infection to use a cotton or! Know more about guinea pig care, check out will an abscess a. Especially not cleaner or added scents as possible in breathing dryer on low heat necessary.

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