Guinea Pigs

american-guinea-pig

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

I wasn’t holding my breath that a vet would work hard to help diagnose my leopard gecko. I was wrong. The doctor worked hard to diagnose why our pet lizard stopped eating & ran a battery of tests.

Paulina Testerman

Vets and staff are knowledgeable and efficient. Clean and friendly Vet office. My dog now goes in to see her Vet with out balking.

Sara Little

Dr. Fink was just super with the Bruiser on his last visit. The entire staff was attentive, caring and professional. We would highly recommend University Animal Clinic to all who love their pets and want the best care for them.

ARF

All employees are amazing with animals. I am glad I found a Vet’s office that makes me feel that my 5 months old puppy is in the best hands

Heide Myrick

Even with full covid-19 protection our Basset was well cared for by the staff, I received detailed home care instructions and got a ‘checking on you’ call the next day. Our basset is on the way to revovery. Perfect outcome. Great caring friendly staff.

Stan Yonkauski

Met Dr. Sam and Dr. Fink today and was very impressed. We have been a client of University Animal Clinic since it opened with Dr. Rill. My wife and I feel very comfortable with these ladies and plan to keep our relationship with them. The staff and Dr’s are very helpful and friendly.

Pet Parent

The very best of care, the entire staff always gives their all and truly cares about both patient and parents! You won’t find a better clinic in Sarasota.

Ron Marano

My dogs, Max and Leo, always have a very positive experience at UAC. The staff is friendly and professional. The office is efficient and clean. I appreciate the ability to check on the dogs’ vaccinations, etc., on the pet portal. Great vet practice.

Ronni Silverman

The entire staff was friendly and professional. Dr. Sam was extremely knowledgeable, kind, and eased my anxiety. Even though I was worried they comforted me, answered all of my questions, and took great care of my fur baby.

Zach Gennette

It is very difficult to find an avian vet who is kind while not sugar coating what can be bad news. I had no idea conures get cataracts as they get older, helped me understand my bird’s actions. The Dr. is wonderful!

Jessica Sakas
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