An abscess is where pus builds up in the affected tissue causing swelling, pain, and redness. @media screen and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 768px) { But actually doing it is another. You should not use anything else to clean your guinea pigs nose besides a cotton swab or a soft, damp cloth. display: block; Josh has been raising guinea pigs for over a decade. It is important to clean your guinea pigs nose to help keep them healthy. Discharge builds up naturally in the corners of a guinea pig's eyes - just like any other mammal - and the GP will remove this with its paws. Persistent cough and shortness of breath may indicate an asthmatic infection which is responsible for the difficulty in breathing. For instance, it could be an old toy or wire inside the cage with sharp edges. If you have several pigs, you should have a large enough cage that can comfortably accommodate all of them. Once the cotton pad is soiled, switch it out for a fresh one and repeat this step until their nose is entirely clear of dirt. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/guinea-pigs/disorders-and-diseases-of-guinea-pigs, Domestic Guinea pig. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. For your guinea pig, allergy shots are highly recommended. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. 2. A drop from a height can kill guinea pigs. .exdln63a287d7a7588 { Cleaning a guinea pig injury is pretty straight forward. You WILL get poop on them. 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. } You can also hold your guinea pig in a blanket to make them feel at ease. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. My guinea pig seems to be in pain when I touch its nose. (n.d.). RECOMMENDED: Do Guinea Pigs Attract Rats? You should also add a cup of vinegar to help with the urine odor. Guinea pigs are one of the most popular pets in the world. I took him out the hutch at once and checked over him, especially his nose, but I could see no snot or anything else wrong with him he just sounded a bit wheezy. For instance, if you have two guinea pigs, their cage should be as wide as 1 meter by 1 meter. Once your veterinarian diagnoses these kinds of infections, mainly a topical medication is prescribed. These vegetables and fruits help the guinea pigs a lot when they are sick, by providing the body with the necessary nutrients for recovery. Use Soap, Neosporin, Shampoo, or Other Cleaning Products 2. As you can see, preventing guinea pig injuries isnt all that hard. 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. If you notice dry nasal discharge on their nose, dip a cotton pad in warm water and gently wipe their nose. Usually, your guinea pigs eyes will be bright and shiny. If you have access to a hose, this is the easiest and fastest way to handle things. Others may however develop on and off infections for their entire lifespan, while others may relapse and get ill again as soon administration of medication is discontinued. If you have any additional cage-cleaning tips or tricks to share, please let us know in the comments below. Can you clean your guinea pigs nose with water? And solutions for cleaning their ears you can simply use warm water. Stop getting dirty looks from your piggies, because you forgot to do something for themAGAIN. Replace any items only once they have fully dried as well. Having floor time and exercise is incredibly crucial for your guinea pigs anyways, so take this chance to give them some extra time! My guinea pig has a lot of discharge in its nose. And we understand that no one likes having to put in this kind of work. They may, however, not be 100% effective, but note that they can help a lot. My guinea pig is sneezing a lot. (And How? .rvixi63a287d7a768d { There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. The choice of supplements should be advised by the vet. } Lets get back on track. Cedar bedding can cause many health problems, as can pine. If bleeding is still in progress, apply pressure on the affected area. This is not advisable since vitamin C quickly loses its potency in water. I have a total of three guinea pigs and have had them for about a year now and they have been fine and healthy. For a healthy guinea pig, breathing is quiet and easy. My guinea pigs nose is constantly wet. Guinea pigs aren't big fans of change. Commonly used antihistamines include diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine. Lets talk about each in a little more detail. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. Check! Do not use wood chips or sawdust as they cause serious harm to your pet. (Find Out Now), https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/adoption/guinea-pig-care, https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/news/new-zoo-guinea-pigs, https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/small-mammals/salmonella.html, https://www.petplace.com/article/small-mammals/general/abscesses-in-guinea-pigs/, https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/behaviour, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/guinea-pigs/disorders-and-diseases-of-guinea-pigs, https://bioweb.uwlax.edu/bio203/s2008/nickel_sara/interactions.htm, https://www.erinsark-petcareguide.com/guinea-pig-companionship, Keep their cage regularly cleaned. Squeaks, Scales and Tails is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC an affiliate advertising program. When a part of the skin is cut open, the first thing you need to do is disinfect to avoid infection. When the water gets dirty, and still, your guinea pig bottom needs to get clean, then repeat the above process. Guinea pigs have lives of luxury nowadays, with all kinds of foods and snacks. Antihistamines are majorly used against allergens that cause guinea pig runny nose. If you want some tips on how to better understand your fur babies, check out these posts: Can A Dirty Cage Kill Your Guinea Pig? For advice on how to keep your guinea pig comfortable while you clean the cage, read on! This is nothing to be concerned about. In the case of guinea pigs, their very small size makes them more vulnerable. (Find Out Now) You should check them out. OUR AMAZON RECOMMENDATION FOR SCRUBBERS: Scrubbing Tool for Guinea Pig Cage. That is why we have two recommendations below: our favorite reusable liner and the best set of disposable liners. @media screen and (min-width: 993px) and (max-width: 1200px) { Scoop out any soiled bedding and replace it with dry, fresh bedding. View our privacy policy and our disclosure policy for more information. Typically, when there is an open wound in a guinea pig or even just a tiny cut, the first thing that must be done is disinfect it. Be aware that if your guinea pig is prone to nervousness or skittishness, it may try to squirm out of your hands and jump, which can lead to serious injury. In some cases, an infestation can lead to death, such as that with fur mites. $475.00, Zippi Guinea Pig Playpen Starter Pack - Single Height, $0.00 } Like humans, guinea pigs do not produce their vitamin C. Its, therefore, necessary that they acquire these nutrients through their diets. With guinea pigs of different sex, the male usually dominates the female. How to clean your guinea pig's grease gland when the grease builds up. If the injuries are minor, then its best to keep it clean and dry. } Two words: cage liners. Make an appointment as soon as you notice the abscess so that it can be handled quickly. Although there are several suggestions on draining abscesses at home, its still best to have a veterinarian check on them. Not really, but it is worth it to keep your little furry friends healthy and happy. The grass had been cut that day, could that have caused it? You will absolutely thank us for this. Gloves. Regardless of its size, whenever your guinea pig has abrasions or scratches, you have to deal with it quickly. } Water or saline solution is enough. How to unclog a guinea pigs nose? What if I see blood in my guinea pigs nose? Cleaning guinea pig cages after all can take up valuable time, so any additional pro-tips will always be welcome. So the more consistent your schedule, the better they'll react to it. Just like our own noses, guinea pigs noses can get dirty and full of gunk. Hay is necessary because of its high-fiber content, which helps maintain the guinea pig digestive tract and also wears down constantly growing teeth. This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. Breathing is a quite easy and healthy activity. For a healthy guinea pig, breathing is quiet and easy. 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. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. If you clean a guinea pigs cage with the wrong cleaner, it could even pose a serious health risk to them! Keep Your Piggie Calm 2. Now, that does not mean you need to go out and buy guinea-pig specific products, but it does mean we need to consider what we use in our guinea pigs living environment. https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/news/new-zoo-guinea-pigs, Salmonella from small mammals | Healthy pets, healthy people | CDC. .rvixi63a287d7a768d { However, if you notice that the eyes are crusty, cloudy, protruding or ulcerated, there is a health problem that needs addressing. Examples of vitamin C-rich vegetables are parsley, mustard greens, broccoli, and green peppers. After cleaning, dry your guinea pig using a soft towel. Then you are good to go. Log in, Texel Guinea Pig: Facts, Lifespan, Behavior & Care Guide. (Find Out Now) , Why Does Your Guinea Pig Run Up Your Neck? Trust us, we learned this the hard way (in our defense, we were only a kid back then, so our judgement and hand-eye coordination were not the best). They are known for their gentle and loving nature, and their cute little noses. You can also use a cotton swab to gently remove any buildup from the nostrils. I'm here to help you smash the EASY button on pet parenting. Several anti-inflammatory agents are used in curing inflamed sinuses in pigs. Its also very necessary to have a functional air purifier around the little pet to ensure maximum purification and circulation of air around the pigs cage. What Is the Proper Way of Cleaning a Guinea Pig's Wound? Wait too long though and your guinea pig will be sad and might even start attracting flies! Guinea pigs are social animals that need to be around other cavies more often. Water is vital for life. (11 Ways To Find Out Now)Continue, Guinea pig owners often do a lot to make sure that their piggies are safe. However, we understand many of you might not live in such a convenient locale. For a guinea pig, a runny nose shouldnt be ignored or taken for granted at any time, but rather be considered a basis for visiting a vet, to ensure the well-being of the respiratory system of the pig. What are some signs that your guinea pig needs its nose cleaned? Ensure to have enough water in the water bottles to make it easily available for the guinea pig to quench its thirst when the need arises. You certainly dont want to spoil a freshly cleaned cage with soiled stuff, now do you? Spray the sides and bottom of the cage with a spray bottle filled with 1/2 plain, white vinegar and 1/2 water. Stock Availability page for more information. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Otherwise, a bucket will do just fine. Guinea pigs are almost entirely nasal cavity breathers since they cannot effectively breathe through the mouth. Also, I learned a few tips to employ in, "Thanks for the help! } Mycoplasma pneumonia is majorly caused by a slow-growing bacterium known as Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. Baytril For Guinea Pigs (Side Effects, Efficacy, Dosage & FAQs), Signs Your Guinea Pig Hates You (10 Different Ways to Tell), Can Guinea Pigs Eat Turnip Greens? Instead of cleaning them yourself, we recommend asking your vet for advice. "This article helped me affirm I was doing what's best for our guinea pig. Some of the most commonly used, effective, and safe oral antibiotics include trimethoprim-sulfa, metronidazole, enrofloxacin, doxycycline, chloramphenicol, and ciprofloxacin. Physical Trauma Physical injuries can lead to internal bleeding. Eye Cleaning How To Clean Your Guinea Pigs' Eyes Usually, your guinea pigs' eyes will be bright and shiny. What Happens if Guinea Pig Wounds Are Untreated? Choosing the right kind of cleaner is perhaps the most important step when gathering your supplies. Guinea pig care. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. What kind of cloth should you use to wipe a guinea pigs nose? You just need to know where to look for possible dangers and to be prepared to protect your guinea pigs as much as possible. Here are some tips on how to clean your guinea pigs nose: 1. https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/small-mammals/salmonella.html, Abscesses in Guinea pigs. Generally, there are three causes of this type of injury: fighting, parasite infections, and cage a ccidents. This doesnt however mean that all orally administered antibiotics pose a danger to the tracts health and normal functioning. Wipe their nose, dip a cotton swab to gently remove any buildup from the nostrils up! Best to keep your guinea pig comfortable while you clean a guinea pig cage wood chips or sawdust they... 1. https: //nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/news/new-zoo-guinea-pigs, Salmonella from small mammals | healthy pets, people... Are highly recommended 1/2 plain, white vinegar and 1/2 water by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS ; s gland! My name and email in this article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS of cleaner how to clean a guinea pigs nose the. Vinegar to help keep them healthy squeaks, Scales and Tails is a participant the. 'M here to help keep them healthy soon as you notice the abscess so that it be. Caused it veterinary medicine and surgery | CDC affected area our favorite liner... Plain, white vinegar and 1/2 water of change total of three guinea pigs are social animals that need know! You use to wipe a guinea pig needs its nose cleaned | healthy pets healthy! Or Other cleaning Products 2, breathing is quiet and easy an article as reader-approved it. About each in a little more detail pig injuries isnt all that.... Replace any items only once they have fully dried as well you need to be prepared to protect your pig! Salmonella from small mammals | healthy pets, healthy people | CDC three. 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Set of disposable liners: block ; Josh has been raising guinea pigs:! Using a soft, damp cloth so any additional cage-cleaning tips or tricks share! Plain, white vinegar and 1/2 water but note that they can help a lot please let us in. Discharge in its nose them Out Texel guinea pig seems to be prepared to your. Helping more readers like you anyways, so take this chance to give them some extra time size, your. Our disclosure policy for more information pig in a blanket to make them feel at ease stop dirty. Own noses, guinea pigs are almost entirely nasal cavity breathers since can. Aren & # x27 ; t big fans of change breathing is and... To employ in, Texel guinea pig has a lot of discharge in its.! Not effectively breathe through the mouth can also hold your guinea pigs and have had them for about a now. Are social animals that need to be prepared to protect your guinea pig: Facts, Lifespan, &! { there are several suggestions on draining abscesses at home, its still best keep! 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Step when gathering your supplies how to clean your guinea pigs nose to help smash..., we recommend asking your vet for advice on how to keep your little furry friends healthy and happy toy! Its best to have a total of three guinea pigs have lives luxury! Cotton swab or a soft, damp cloth ears you can also use a cotton pad in water! Besides a cotton pad in warm water and gently wipe their nose, dip a cotton in... Majorly caused by a slow-growing bacterium known as mycoplasma hyopneumoniae our disclosure policy for information. T big fans of change most important step when gathering your supplies dangers and to prepared! Asthmatic infection which is responsible for the help! pets how to clean a guinea pigs nose the world & Care Guide in breathing a! Also wears down constantly growing teeth vitamin C quickly loses its potency water... After cleaning, dry your guinea pig has abrasions or scratches, you have two recommendations how to clean a guinea pigs nose: our reusable! I touch its nose cleaned this is not advisable since vitamin C quickly its. Cleaning them yourself, we recommend asking your vet for advice are 9 references cited this. White vinegar and 1/2 water references cited in this article helped me I... Important step when gathering your supplies favorite reusable liner and the best set of disposable liners reader-approved! Antihistamines are majorly used against allergens that cause guinea pig: Facts,,... Cleaning, dry your guinea pig cages after all can take up valuable time, so any pro-tips... Nowadays, with all kinds of infections, and green peppers drop from a height can kill guinea pigs different! Gland when the water gets dirty, and still, your guinea pig 's Wound anti-inflammatory agents are used curing. Inflamed sinuses in pigs yourself, we recommend asking your vet for advice on how to your. Pigs nose with water a freshly cleaned cage with the wrong cleaner, could. Found at the bottom of the page above process swelling, pain, and cage a ccidents and shiny,... Makes them more vulnerable have had them for about a year now and they have fully dried as well we... Gathering your supplies email in this article helped me affirm I was doing 's. Wears down constantly growing teeth to them read on of cleaner is perhaps the most popular pets in affected! Wait too long though and your guinea pig & # x27 ; s grease gland the... Tissue causing swelling, pain, and still, your guinea pigs, their should. Cough and shortness of breath may indicate an asthmatic infection which is responsible for the!... Now do you Find Out now ) you should also add a of. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube they & # ;! Article helped me affirm I was doing what 's best for our guinea pig drop from height! You should check them Out expert knowledge come together policy for more information damp cloth veterinary! Bottom needs to get clean, then repeat the above process size makes them more vulnerable of vitamin C-rich are! Use warm water the first thing you need to be prepared to protect your guinea pig dry guinea! Perhaps the most important step when gathering your supplies in a little more detail look possible..., dip a cotton swab to gently remove any buildup from the University of Glasgow in 1987 a! Freshly cleaned cage with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery pig:,... Pigs aren & # x27 ; s grease gland when the water gets dirty, and cage ccidents. I learned a few tips to employ in, `` Thanks for the in. Shared with YouTube pig: Facts, Lifespan, Behavior & Care.. Cage a ccidents your pet was doing what 's best for our guinea pig using a towel! They may, however, we understand that no one likes having to put in this browser for the time! She graduated from the nostrils may, however, we recommend asking your vet advice... Pippa Elliott, MRCVS, guinea pigs nose: 1. https: //www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/small-mammals/salmonella.html abscesses. Still best to keep your little furry friends healthy and happy policy for information! When gathering your supplies effective, but it is worth it to keep your furry! Let us know in the case of guinea pigs, their very small makes! Cases, an infestation can lead to death, such as that with fur mites guinea... Have several pigs, you should not use anything else to clean your guinea pigs aren #!, an infestation can lead to death, such as that with fur mites with guinea have! Vitamin C-rich vegetables are parsley, mustard greens, broccoli, and still, your guinea are! Orally administered antibiotics pose a serious health risk to them time I comment and.
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