What are the possible causes and symptoms of respiratory problems in guinea pigs, and how can they be prevented?
The predisposing factors for respiratory infections in guinea pigs are:
- Change in the environmental temperature
- Poor ventilation
- Humidity
- Build up of dirty litter. This causes a build up of ammonia that weakens the resistance of the respiratory tract to infection
- Sudden diet change
- Diet low in vitamin C
- Overcrowding
- Young, old and pregnant guinea pigs are the most susceptible groups
Pneumonia
This can be caused by viruses or bacteria and the clinical signs inc:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Rough, wheezy breathing ('ruttling')
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing
- An affected guinea pig has a tucked up appearance, is depressed and off its food
In some cases the infection spreads to the middle and inner ear causing a twisted neck ('torticollis')
- There are numerous bacteria and viral agents that can cause this
Bordetella bronchiseptica, one of the commonest causes of respiratory problems, can be introduced by:
- A symptomless carrier of another species, such as dogs, cats and rabbits. Care must be taken if any of these species are brought into close contact with a guinea pig and vice versa
- Outbreaks of this particular bacteria are precipitated by stress
- The incubation period is 3 to 7 days
Treatment for respiratory infections may include:
- Antibiotics
- A warm, well ventilated, clean environment
- Eucalyptus oil to help clear the nasal passages applied around the hutch
- Multivitamins
Prevention:
- Keep environmental factors constant
- Room temperature is best at 20 to 22C
- Hutches should be cleaned regularly to avoid the accumulation of ammonia
- Good ventilation, but the housing should be free from draughts
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