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Guinea Pigs

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american guinea pig

What You Need To Know About Pet Guinea Pigs

Furry, fun-loving and adorable, guinea pigs make for a special addition to any family. While they do require special care, creating the perfect living environment for these pets is easy. Keep reading to learn about how to care for this animal and spot signs of early health issues.

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HOW TO CARE

For A Pet Guinea Pig

Learning how to care for your pet guinea pig plays an essential role in giving your pet a healthy, happy and long lifetime. Before getting one, it’s important to consider the following care factors:

  • Health Check-Ups: Regular check-ups are at the core of a strong preventative health care plan for your pet. Taking your guinea pig to the vet will help identify illnesses early and get your pet on the right medications.
  • Housing: Since these pets are at risk of heat stroke, you should keep their cages inside. A recommended space of at least .5 square meters per guinea pig will guarantee your pets have enough room to roam!
  • Feeding: Guinea pigs develop their taste for foods early on in life. Feeding your pet veggies, fruits and hay right away will ensure a healthy diet moving forward.
  • Dental Care and Nail Trimming: High fiber diets are key to avoiding overgrown teeth. Trimming your guinea pigs nails regularly is also an essential part of on-going care.
  • Desexing: To prevent your pet from some serious diseases and cancer, desex your guinea pig between five and six months of age.

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MOST COMMON

Health Issues For Guinea Pigs

When pet owners know what to look for, they gain the power of preventing common health conditions from affecting their animals. Educating yourself about the common health issues for guinea pigs, in particular, is especially important. These include:

  • Respiratory Infections: Signs and symptoms mirror those of the common cold. By decreasing dust particles around your guinea pig, you can help your pet avoid getting sick.
  • Scurvy: A lack of calcium causes scurvy which can lead to stunted growth, joint swelling and rabbit-like hopping. To avoid these symptoms, feed your pet high calcium foods like broccoli and kale.
  • Tumors: Unfortunately, all animals are susceptible to tumors. If you feel a hard lump on your guinea pig, they may have cancer. See your vet immediately if you feel something strange.
  • Heat Stroke: These pets have thick fur and can’t sweat. Therefore, it’s essential for them to live in cooler conditions. If you notice your pet panting, try putting some cold water over its back.

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When To Call A Guinea Pig Vet

If you suspect your pet has any of the above common health issues, call your local guinea pig vet clinic. Being proactive is key to preventing illnesses from worsening.

Guinea Pig Specialists In Sarasota, Bradenton And Lakewood Ranch, FL

We offer health services for exotic animals, wellness plans and dental X-rays for your pets. If you have any questions about how to care for your guinea pig, call us at (941) 253-5218 or contact us online. We also encourage you to visit us in person at our location in Bradenton, Florida.

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Contact us today to learn more or request an appointment for your guinea pig online.

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What Our Clients Have To Say

Brought my baby ferret here, Dr. Sam was awesome about letting me ask all of my questions and giving me direct answers (really bothers me when we see a vet for our cats and can’t get clear answers).

Katie Martin

The staff and doctors were extremely helpful and kind. I feel confident in their ability to diagnose and treat my puppies. I’m so thankful they were referred to me by a friend.

Patty Sisson

Most caring and helpful Vet ever. The staff are amazing and are so wonderful with all pets. They take amazing care of my two fur babies. I wouldn’t trust my two pups with anyone else. You can really tell how much the love animals.

Jean Hamilton

By far the best vet I have ever been to! We just moved to the area and by some horrible chance had two pet emergencies in our first month with my pets, Moose and Thor. Not only did they get us in same day..

Joe R

Incredibly grateful to the staff of University Animal Clinic. We have been a customer for over 20 years. They were able to take care of our dog Duke today for an unscheduled appointment for UTI. Couldn’t imagine going to anybody else.

Ellen Wolak

Very welcoming right from the moment I made the first appointment. Due to the COVID virus, I could not go in with my cat to see the vet but she called me and we had a great conversation. They took some blood and a few days later the vet called me with the results.

Cara Pabis

Awesome reptile vet! I thought there was a problem with my bearded dragon so I made an app to bring him in. Dr. Sara was knowledgeable, professional, and down to earth. UAC is clean and doesn’t smell like urine whatsoever. I love coming here and will continue to bring my pets here.

Tresha Keener

This was Tanks first visit and will be his only vet from now on!!! They were helpful, informative and friendly!! Thanks to everyone who works there!!! Tank had a great experience!

Dean Gibson

Yesterday was our first visit to this clinic. I brought my 6 year old Goffin Cockatoo Chance in for a wellness check and nail trim and also to discuss her ongoing feather plucking issues. Dr. Leigh Samanowitz was Amazing as were all the staff.

Margie Bauer

We’ve always had a great experience at University Animal Clinic. The doctors and team are all very knowledgeable and friendly. They get back to you in a timely manner and work with you when it comes to scheduling appointments.

Natalie Platt
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