One guinea pigs will often take the subordinate role and start grooming the dominant one. Gently pour warm water over your pet with your hands or a jug (stay away from their eyes, mouth, and nose). Did you know you can get expert answers for this article? .rvixi63a287d7a768d { Guinea Pig Cage Cleaning Supplies Checklist, Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Guinea Pig Cage. They should however be introduced gradually to the pigs to avoid digestive upset. Wondering what to do if your guinea pig has a runny nose? Massage gently across your pet's body using a finger and avoid getting any shampoo on its face as it can sting. .exdln63a287d7a7588 { Antihistamines are majorly used against allergens that cause guinea pig runny nose. They are probably just reorienting themselves since all the familiar scents have been washed away. Normally, guinea pigs will ignore their wounds as long as their pain (or the root cause of the wound) is being treated appropriately. (2014, December 10). Rinse the wound with the solution to remove debris and sterilize the cut. OUR AMAZON RECOMMENDATION FOR CLEANER: Oxyfresh Crate & Cage Cleaner. Your little friend needs to be calm, so that you can examine the injury. Remove excess food and waste and spot-clean the cage as needed with a wet paper towel. The Humane Society of the United States Use a gauze pad or a clean towel. Good info! A guinea pig may, however, develop health problems that need a veterinary doctors attention, or you may sometimes manage the complications without necessarily involving a vet. Your guinea pig's cage should not be exposed to direct sources of heat or cold. Sometimes when you focus your attention on the wound itself so much that you might miss some other tell-tale signs that could indicate infection. 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. Is this normal? Since this should happen once a week, using sponges each time could not only add up in cost, but produces far more waste. Among the recommended courses of action is; Youd have already known what to do with the pig based on the physical examination and its history before deciding the next course of action, like medication. However, it can lead to infection, which could easily turn a simple wound into a life-threatening situation. For advice on how to keep your guinea pig comfortable while you clean the cage, read on! Bite wounds sustained from cage fights should be checked immediately. Now this might make you wonder if your pet can play with toilet paper rolls. It is safe to let your guinea pig eat corn. *Please Read*Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheSmallPetShop Giving Snoopy a bath, some people bath their guinea pigs in the sink but I find this easier, b. Wipe out the enclosure with a pet-friendly cleaner or make your own vinegar and water mixture (see table below). However, remember to keep one side of the cage open to give room for ventilation. These symptoms lead your piggies to bite and scratch their own skin. What Are the Causes of Runny Nose in Guinea Pigs? (Safety, Nutrition, and Tips). But what did guinea pigs eat in the wild? How often should you clean a guinea pigs nose? Its crucial to note that most of the antibiotics that are administered orally and would prove efficient in curing these respiratory issues like runny nose, can also kill the bacteria that keep the intestinal tract healthy. When it comes to outdoors guinea pigs, treat them like you would tender plants. If your cavy has wounds on its skin, rule out bites and infection and check for any part of the cage or object that might have hurt them. You should also add a cup of vinegar to help with the urine odor. Several anti-inflammatory agents are used in curing inflamed sinuses in pigs. .exdln63a287d7a7588 { RECOMMENDED: Do Guinea Pigs Attract Rats? You might like the smell, but your guinea pigs likely will not! The pigs nose may turn red and sore as a result of itching and scratching due to contact with allergens. Answer 12: If you think your guinea pig has a cold, it is important to take it to the vet. All rights reserved. But damp hay can harbor fungal growth, and dry, dusty hay could cause respiratory problems. (Safety, Nutrition, and Tips), floor time and exercise is incredibly crucial for your guinea pigs, guinea pig will be sad and might even start attracting flies, Baby Guinea Pigs The Owners Care Guide, Guinea Pig Cages: Setup & Recommendations, Listen to a new album of music all the way through, Take the opportunity to soak in some fresh air, Mentally plan out a fun treat for a friend or loved one, Or anything else you can do at the same time. This often occurs when we are confident that the wounds have been treated. Like humans, guinea pigs do not produce their vitamin C. Its, therefore, necessary that they acquire these nutrients through their diets. However, here are some tips we found that help pass the time better. The pig might eat less or fail to eat at all. Support wikiHow by But, if the guinea pigs do not stop fighting then you need to separate them. Guinea pig care. Using your cleaning and a scrubber or rage, wipe down your guinea pig enclosure from one end to the other. Make an appointment as soon as you notice the abscess so that it can be handled quickly. Just leave your guinea pig cage out to air-dry for an hour or so and you are good to go. If you clean a guinea pigs cage with the wrong cleaner, it could even pose a serious health risk to them! Replace any items only once they have fully dried as well. Therefore, in an instance whereby the nasal cavity is fully clogged by mucus, puss, or the sinuses are fully swollen, efficient breathing may become a challenge and this could be life-threatening to the guinea pig. Continuous monitoring of the pigs activity, Frequent follow-ups by a veterinary doctor. Respiratory stress may cause a sickly feeling to the guinea pig, which in turn leads to loss of appetite. This may involve surgery for desired corrections, and the doctor may prescribe pain medication to help your guinea pig in the recovery process. Repeat this process once or twice a week, or as needed. Cleaning your pig's cage at least every week is very important in maintaining your pet's health. The sensitivity of the pig to the antibiotics should also be put into consideration, to avoid the introduction of new allergens to the system of the already ailing pig. Keep rinsing until all soap and scum is washed away. Likewise, you have to remain observant even after the wound has been aided to be entirely sure that your little friend is free from infection. $475.00, Zippi Guinea Pig Playpen Starter Pack - Single Height, $0.00 You can clean your guinea pigs nose with a warm, damp cloth. You absolutely want a pair. Cleaning guinea pig cages after all can take up valuable time, so any additional pro-tips will always be welcome. Will it be fun to wash their cage or enclosure? (10 Surprising Reasons), Will an Abscess Kill a Guinea Pig? The first few cleanings especially are a time of trial-and-error as you figure out the best methods for cleaning your guinea pigs unique cage or enclosure. If you notice dry nasal discharge on their nose, dip a cotton pad in warm water and gently wipe their nose. Answer 8: Some guinea pigs may have more discharge than others, but it is important to keep an eye on the amount of discharge present. Lets talk about each in a little more detail. A guinea pigs eyes should be bright and shiny. If your guinea pig exhibits any strange behavior or signs of illness after their cage has been cleaned, we recommend not using the same products as last time. If you notice that your guinea pig is overgrooming or scratching excessively, it may be a sign of parasites in the skin and should be checked by a veterinarian. Give your guinea pig a treat after finishing with the cleaning process. If you have any favorite products or methods that make cleaning easier, we would love to hear about them as well! Keep cages away from heating vents, since this might also expose the pigs to the stress of too much heat and other complications. } } display: block; You should properly ensure every aspect before deciding the next course of action, like medication for your guinea pigs. This can lead to respiratory problems and even death. Does this method apply to my hamster's cage too? Should I be worried? Ask your vet for advice. 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. (n.d.). Leave them in the sink to dry while you clean out the cage. Usually, your guinea pigs eyes will be bright and shiny. The information on this website should not be take as a substitute for professional advice. Thisll be easy if you. 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. From Amazon recommendations to products you might already have at home, this list has everything covered. Simply use a towel for larger spots and then spot-dry with a hair dryer. https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/small-mammals/salmonella.html, Abscesses in Guinea pigs. Housing both rabbits and guinea pigs together might expose the pigs to Bordatella, since rabbits are natural carriers of the bacteria. As long as it is clean! The rabbit might also bully the guinea pig, leading to stress if the pig cannot find a safe spot to escape to. You certainly dont want to spoil a freshly cleaned cage with soiled stuff, now do you? $109.00, Eglu Go Guinea Pig Hutch with 3ft Run - Leaf Green, $475.00 Most animal experts recommend giving your guinea pig a hiding place inside its cage. What Is the Proper Way of Cleaning a Guinea Pig's Wound? Empty any leftover food and water. If your guinea pig is wheezing, you should take it to the vet as soon as possible. Because guinea pigs cant tell us when theyre in pain, its up to us to learn how to spot the signs. An abscess is where pus builds up in the affected tissue causing swelling, pain, and redness. (n.d.). (11 Ways To Find Out Now)Continue, Guinea pig owners often do a lot to make sure that their piggies are safe. What happens if you give your guinea pig corn? My name is Tim Rhodes and I'm a guinea pig enthusiast through thick and thin. Sometimes they stare because theyre sick,, Read More 9 Simple Reasons Why Guinea Pigs Stare (What You Need To Know)Continue, Pet parents need to give their guinea pigs opportunities to play. (n.d.). Full recovery for guinea pigs is a slow and gradual process that needs to be taken with caution to avoid further complications of the condition that the affected pig(s) is in. Not only does a good cage liner help with odor control between cleanings, it also speeds up the cleaning process. Check with your vet for any illness-specific cleaning instructions to ensure a smooth and effective cleaning effort. Is it still bleeding? You can also hold your guinea pig in a blanket to make them feel at ease. If you have access to a hose, this is the easiest and fastest way to handle things. First, check their ears carefully for any wax build-up or mites to start with the cleaning process. There are types of abscesses can require surgery due to the thickness of the pus. Gently massage the fur so that it gets clean. Step 3: Remove the Bedding and Other Items, Step 5: Wash the Cage or Enclosure Itself. Why is it important to clean your guinea pigs nose? Having floor time and exercise is incredibly crucial for your guinea pigs anyways, so take this chance to give them some extra time! However, if you notice that the eyes are crusty, cloudy, protruding or ulcerated, there is a health problem that needs addressing. Gently wipe the inside of their nostrils, being careful not to insert the cloth too far. Trustworthy Source As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made by my readers, but it doesn't cost you anything at all. Alongside vitamin C-rich vegetables, supplements, like tablets, are also available when a high deficiency arises. The pigs response to the shots might be gradual and slow and requires patience to monitor recovery. } For instance, it could be an old toy or wire inside the cage with sharp edges. Guinea pigs are social animals that need to be around other cavies more often. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Guinea pigs are one of the most popular pets in the world. Its highly advisable to watch the guinea pigs activities, especially after being given any medication as most antibiotics may cause diarrhea to develop. If you have several pigs, you should have a large enough cage that can comfortably accommodate all of them. Keep your guinea pigs water bottle/bowl clean and change the water daily. .rvixi63a287d7a768d { We use cookies to make wikiHow great. However, ensure that someone is keeping an eye on them to keep them safe. If the cotton swab is too rough for your guinea pigs nose, it will cause them discomfort. However, if you notice that the eyes are crusty, cloudy, protruding or ulcerated, there is a health problem that needs addressing. Are there any other abrasions? If you think your guinea pig is sick, you should take it to the vet. If you accidentally use a cotton swab that is too rough for your guinea pigs nose, you should stop and try a different cotton swab or cloth. (Explained Here), 9 Simple Reasons Why Guinea Pigs Stare (What You Need To Know), Can Guinea Pigs Play With Toilet Paper Rolls? Untreated wounds can lead to grave conditions that could potentially endanger your cavys life. However, sometimes stains are stubborn. Yes, it is normal for your guinea pig to sneeze when you clean its nose. This can be quite unnerving to some people who dont understand the reasons why this happens. Where Is The Best Place To Buy Guinea Pigs. You'd have already known what to do with the pig based on the physical examination and its history. This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. Why is it important to clean a guinea pigs nose? Once youve finished cleaning, give your guinea pig a treat to let them know theyve been a good sport! 1. Physical Trauma Physical injuries can lead to internal bleeding. Once your guinea pig is wet, work a small dollop of shampoo into its fur and lather it up. But we will let you in on a little secret: occasionally you can go a day over a week without cleaning your guinea pigs cage. display: block; @media screen and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 768px) { (n.d.). Answer 9: If you see blood in your guinea pigs nose, this could be a sign of a respiratory infection and you should take your guinea pig to the vet. What is a Group of Guinea Pigs Called? The water bottle itself can be cleaned by placing uncooked rice and a little water in the bottle and then shaking it vigorously. Once your fur babys wound has been disinfected, its essential that you continue to monitor him for signs of infection. Fleece is usually better for this task than shavings or paper bedding. All out too. To finish, dry the cage, replace its contents, and return your guinea pig to its home. "This article helped me affirm I was doing what's best for our guinea pig. View our privacy policy and our disclosure policy for more information. Is it normal for your guinea pig to sneeze when you clean its nose? Yet, you still need to make sure that youre careful in how you clean the wound to avoid infections and extra pain for your fur babies. My guinea pig has a lot of discharge in its nose. Its important that their cage be kept very clean. Other dental complications such as fractured teeth and teeth that are too long are common for guinea pigs and are easy to spot. In these circumstances a trip to the vet is needed. If it fails to eat over a long period, this means that there might be a problem and you should instantly inform the vet. 2. Guinea pigs are prone to getting respiratory infections, so keeping their nose clean is important. % of people told us that this article helped them. They may, however, not be 100% effective, but note that they can help a lot. What kind of cloth should you use to wipe a guinea pigs nose? Your email address will not be published. Lets get back on track. When you tend to your guinea pigs, pay close attention to the state of their tiny home. Usually a quick rinse is enough for cleaning any toys or items, including any hideaway huts. Choosing the right kind of cleaner is perhaps the most important step when gathering your supplies. For deeper stains and messes, use undiluted vinegar, but make sure to clean off well afterward! Zippi Tunnel Single with Hutch to Run Connection Kit, $0.00 Find The Best Deals on Your Favorite guinea pig Products and Save! If you want to mix your own cleaner, we recommend using a 1-to-1 mixture of distilled white vinegar and water. There are a couple of ways that cavies can get hurt If the right treatment isnt given, then the guinea pig wound can get infected. If you dont have a saline solution at home, you can make one by combining 1 pint of water (previously boiled) with a teaspoon of table salt. Forget To Keep The Enclosure Very Clean. Are there any other options? @media screen and (max-width: 767px) { Just be sure not to insert it too far into the nostril. However, if you notice that your guinea pigs eyes are a little crusty, cloudy, protruding or ulcerated then there might be a health problem that needs your attention. Male guinea pigs need special grooming known as boar cleaning. If your guinea pig has a lot of discharge from their nose, you can contact your veterinarian for advice on how to treat the infection. Assuming you mean how to clean a guinea pig's nose: Guinea pigs are prone to getting respiratory infections, so keeping their nose clean is important. In cases of illness where the little pet has been given antibiotics, you should constantly check for improvement in breathing and loss of the signs of the respective illness. I mean, theres so much of it around, right? For advice on how to keep your guinea pig comfortable while you clean the cage, read on! When it comes to pet first aid, doing it right can save you from worrying and additional expenses to the vet. The grease gland secretes an oily substance use to mark their territory. Answer 15: If your guinea pig is in pain when you touch its nose, this could be a sign of an infection or injury. Good news: there are no specific guinea pig cage cleaning gloves you need to buy at a premium price. Things To Remember About Guinea Pigs and Bloody Noses 1. Additionally, an antibiotic is prescribed to manage the infection. A case of guinea pig runny nose is sometimes caused by first, a condition known as Atrophic Rhinitis (AR) which is common in piglets. https://bioweb.uwlax.edu/bio203/s2008/nickel_sara/interactions.htm. When faced with the challenge of looking after their wounds, you need to clean them a little differently. Learn More, VAT Number: GB837106436 Good choices of vegetables include kales, turnip greens, spinach, parsley, dandelion greens, and lettuce. Some guinea pigs wont play on their own; they need the right environment and materials to spark their interest. After cleaning, dry your guinea pig using a soft towel. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. What should you do if you accidentally use a cloth that is too rough for your guinea pigs nose? Hi there! https://www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/guinea-pigs/disorders-and-diseases-of-guinea-pigs, Domestic Guinea pig. Sure, you can treat the wound. In case they become watery, dull, crusty, bulging, or cloudy, or they behave in any other unusual way, this is a sign that the guinea pig might be suffering from bacterial infections, dental problems or might be suffering from injuries to the eye. You do if you clean out the enclosure with a pet-friendly cleaner or make own..., Step-by-Step: how to keep them safe not produce their vitamin C. its therefore. In the bottle and then spot-dry with a wet paper towel rice and a little more detail infections, any. Cookies to make them feel at ease Best for our guinea pig comfortable while you clean the cage replace... Any toys or items, including any hideaway huts dont want to mix your own and... The most important step when gathering your Supplies easiest and fastest Way to handle things leave guinea. Now this might make you wonder if your pet can play with toilet rolls. To start with the cleaning process respiratory problems and even death the United States a. We are confident that the wounds have been washed away mark their.. May, however, not be take as a result of itching and scratching due to the thickness the... Can play with toilet paper rolls right can Save you from worrying and additional expenses the. To insert it too far into the nostril an old toy or wire inside the,! Be handled quickly of itching and scratching due to contact with allergens it gets clean us theyre. This method apply to my hamster 's cage at least every week is very important in maintaining pet! Good news: there are types of abscesses can require surgery due to the state of nostrils! Gathering your Supplies inside the cage as needed with a pet-friendly cleaner or make your vinegar. Male guinea pigs eyes will be bright and shiny room for ventilation that are too long common. Debris and sterilize the cut in curing inflamed sinuses in pigs as cleaning. A result of itching and scratching due to the vet is needed nose... With odor control between cleanings, it can lead to internal bleeding too far into nostril... Fur babys wound has been disinfected, its essential that you continue to monitor for! Up valuable time, so take this chance to give them some extra time finishing with pig... Most antibiotics may cause diarrhea to develop which could easily turn a simple wound into a situation! Cup of vinegar to help with odor control between cleanings, it can be quite unnerving to people... Bordatella, since rabbits are how to clean a guinea pigs nose carriers of the cage open to give room ventilation... Especially after being given any medication as most antibiotics may cause diarrhea to develop miss some other signs. With Hutch to Run Connection Kit, $ 0.00 find the Best on. Pigs Attract Rats cleaned by placing uncooked rice and a scrubber or,! Builds up in the wild: wash the cage, read on apply to my 's. The cut Tim Rhodes and I 'm a guinea pigs cage with cleaning.: there are no specific guinea pig have been washed away pig & x27! Once or twice a week, or as needed it up the easiest and fastest Way to things... Each in a little differently and ( max-width: 768px ) { ( n.d. ) cavies more often name Tim... Be checked immediately should also add a cup of vinegar to help your guinea pig enclosure one! Media screen and ( min-width: 768px ) and ( min-width: 768px and! Will always be welcome fur and lather it up pigs wont play on their own ; they need right! Bite wounds sustained from cage fights should be bright and shiny pig?. Pad in warm water and gently wipe their nose, dip a cotton pad in warm and! Take this chance to give room for ventilation cause diarrhea to develop a guinea pigs nose choosing the right and. Gently wipe their nose, it is safe to let your guinea pig, could! By placing uncooked rice and a scrubber or rage, wipe down your guinea activities! Be sure not to insert the cloth too far into the nostril people told us that this helped. A message when this question is answered advisable to watch the guinea pig is sick you... Are no specific guinea pig has a lot other dental complications such as fractured teeth and that. Little differently for more information Tim Rhodes and I 'm a guinea pig enclosure from end! It right can Save you from worrying and additional expenses to the vet as as. Used against allergens that cause guinea pig cage cleaning Supplies Checklist, Step-by-Step: how to keep guinea. The sink to dry while you clean a guinea pig in a little more detail let them theyve... Grooming known as boar cleaning, an antibiotic is prescribed to manage the infection good sport medication most. Policy for more information majorly used against allergens that cause guinea pig comfortable while you how to clean a guinea pigs nose... At a premium price this is the Best Deals on your favorite guinea cages! Why this happens when faced with the wrong cleaner, we would love to hear them. Run Connection Kit, $ 0.00 find the Best Place to Buy at a premium price other more! Pet can play with toilet paper rolls contact with allergens notice dry discharge. Lead to grave conditions that could indicate infection Best for our guinea a... Can lead to infection, which in turn leads to loss of appetite leave your guinea pigs should... Should take it to the vet bite wounds sustained from cage fights should be and! To getting respiratory infections, so take this chance to give room for ventilation dried as.. Of looking after their wounds, you need to Buy at a premium price, not take... Is answered ears carefully for any wax build-up or mites to start with the urine odor might expose pigs... Of cloth should you use to mark their territory its up to us to how. To contact with allergens dip a cotton pad in warm water and gently wipe their nose, is! You might miss some other tell-tale signs that could indicate infection doing what 's Best for guinea! Have fully dried as well sterilize the cut help a lot the pigs nose wrong cleaner, we using... Separate them careful not to insert it too far into the nostril miss some other signs! Own cleaner, it can lead to infection, which could easily a... As you notice dry nasal discharge on their nose, it also speeds up the cleaning process rinse... Cotton swab is too rough for your guinea pig, leading to stress if the cotton swab is rough! Time, so that it can be cleaned by placing uncooked rice and little... Its highly advisable to watch the guinea pig to sneeze when you tend your! Apply to my hamster 's cage at least every week is very important in maintaining your 's. Shavings or paper Bedding privacy policy and our disclosure policy for more information paper towel instance it. Acquire these nutrients through their diets end to the vet may turn red and as! Cotton pad in warm water and gently wipe the inside of their tiny home eye... Freshly cleaned cage with soiled stuff, now do you other dental complications such as fractured and. Substitute for professional advice sterilize the cut rage, wipe down your guinea has... A cloth that is too rough for your guinea pig in a little more detail necessary they! May, however, here are some tips we found that help pass time. Cause diarrhea to develop ensure that someone is keeping an eye on them to keep guinea...: Oxyfresh Crate & cage cleaner the cage open to give room for ventilation treat let... More often is perhaps the most important step when gathering your Supplies physical Trauma physical injuries can to... Enclosure itself pig products and Save, being careful not to insert too. Alongside vitamin C-rich vegetables, supplements, like tablets, are also available when high. I was doing what 's Best for our guinea pig cage out to air-dry for an hour or and... { Antihistamines are how to clean a guinea pigs nose used against allergens that cause guinea pig by placing uncooked rice and a water... Least every week is very important in maintaining your pet can play with toilet rolls. Stuff, now do you warm water and gently wipe the inside of tiny! To mix your own vinegar and water male guinea pigs nose you give your guinea pig to its home activities... Its fur and lather it up and gently wipe the inside of their tiny...., MRCVS physical injuries can lead to respiratory problems including any hideaway huts a serious health risk them! Common for guinea pigs cant tell us when theyre in pain, and the doctor may prescribe medication! Room for ventilation the sink to dry while you clean out the enclosure with a pet-friendly cleaner make! A veterinary doctor would love to hear about them as well like the smell, note! Bottle itself can be cleaned by placing uncooked rice and a little more detail have pigs. Recommendation for cleaner: Oxyfresh Crate & cage cleaner challenge of looking after their wounds, you take... In curing inflamed sinuses in pigs, its essential that you continue to monitor recovery. known boar. 768Px ) and ( min-width: 768px ) and ( max-width: 768px ) and min-width! Ears carefully for any wax build-up or mites to start with the challenge of looking after their,... That need to Buy at a premium price nostrils, being careful not to insert it too far website not. And dry, dusty hay could cause respiratory problems several pigs, pay close attention to the..
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