My new guinea pig keeps scratching a lot. what could it be?

Question

My new guinea pig keeps scratching a lot. what could it be?

Answer 1

This is common in guinea pigs, it could just be hay, but you need to be careful because it could be mites. Don't panic, it can be sorted. First take to your guinea pig to the vets (if the scratching continues and you start to notice bald patches on him/her). If the vet suggests a skin scrape, then it is up to you if you want him/her to have it. Your guineapig might also have to have a series of tets. If you decide for your guinea pig not to have the skin scrape, then you can try a range of treatents which you can get from your local pet shop. There are many shampoos which are anti flea and mite, and powders which can also get rid of the problem. If they don't work, then go back to vets. Good luck x

Answer 2

fleas, itchiness, or maybe just used to it

Answer 3

could be fleas or the bedding you are using.

Answer 4

most likely mange, mine were always getting it. The vet can treat it easily. Change the bedding and disinect the cage/pen before you put the guinea pig back in  

Answer 5

Mites and lice. >< You will need to take it to the vet if you see them. Or give your guinea pig a bath. Don't let it swim though.  

Answer 6

fleas or if its warm weather were you live it could be itching him x

Answer 7

Nervous guinea pigs will scratch with their hind legs when you bring them food as if to find a bit of confidence to accept it.

Guinea pigs who are lacking in certain vitamins will scratch.

Guinea pigs can also suffer from skin infections such as mange and can also get fleas and lice.

They can also get ringworm which is a fungus and looks like round scabby/crusty patches on the skin.

If the fur is coming away in clumps and there are bold flaky patches forming then the symptoms could be the start of mange.

Fleas and lice can be seen in the fur.

In all cases take your guinea pig to the vet for a examination just to confirm there are no underlying causes.

As with all new pets, a veterinary examination should be carried out to make sure the animal is fit and well.

Answer 8

It could be mange due to mites, which is quite common in guinea pigs

Answer 9

I have a hamster and when i first got it, it started itching loads and at the time i was giving it raisins as treats. I stopped giving them to her and then she was fine, i think she had an allergy to them. So your guinea pig could be allergic to something it eats etc. Also check its fur for fleas & mites.

Answer 10

flea, mites or maybe an injury  but you can buy medication against mites but you should visit the vet to be sure.

Answer 11

fleas or mites. go to your local pet store and get some treatment easily sorted dont worry x