Taking care of a pet pig is surprisingly similar to caring for a dog or cat, according to some veterinarians. Common Health Problems . To ease arthritis, keeping your pigs healthy and active is essential, as is consulting with your veterinarian about possible treatments. Below is a list of the most common health problems rabbit face with their health. The animals are not exactly pigs and are a variety of rodents that hail from South America where they were bred as a food source high in protein to get the local population through lean periods in the cold Andean winters. The … 10 Things Potential Teacup Pig Owners Need to Consider, Understanding the Pros and Cons of Owning Micro Pigs. A veterinarian knowledgeable about treating guinea pigs is key to your friend’s health, as some medications or treatments used for cats and dogs don’t work or can even harm guinea pigs. Dental problems are also common, so check your pet’s mouth for drooling, overgrown teeth, or swelling. your pig still has not defecated), you should visit the veterinarian. Arthritis is one of the most common ailments in potbellied pigs. A 300 lb. © Copyright 2021 Micro Pig Pets, All Rights Reserved. Rabies. You can put some treats in the back of the kennel every now and then, leaving the door open, so the pig can come and go. Your pet guinea pig will live 5–7 years, on average. Your pet guinea pig will live 5–7 years, on average. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate a pig is ill or in pain: Pigs can have a variety of health issues, ranging from simple ear infections to a complicated disease like cancer. If a small pet’s eyes seem irritated or swollen, don’t wait to take him to a vet. Part of a pig’s adorableness is his fat tummy, but a pig should never be so overweight that they have rolls of fat. You can keep them occupied with the right enclosure and lots of things to explore and play with: For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. 0:00. Dental health. 5, is now the proud owner of a pet pig. As you can imagine, pigs, even teacup pigs, enjoy eating. Pigs have sensitive skin and can experience issues such as dry skin, sunburn if outside for too long, and mange mites. The most common health problems in potbellied pigs are respiratory troubles and constipation. In pigs, arthritis can be caused by past or present weight issues or lack of exercise, but it can also be the result of the pig’s breeding, age or previous diet. In pigs, arthritis can be caused by past or present weight issues or lack of exercise, but it can also be the result of the pig’s breeding, age or previous diet. It is also a good idea to put a blanket inside the crate to help the pig feel secure. Guinea Pig Health Issues: Guinea pigs are perhaps some of the oldest pets and sources of food for mankind. In fact, most pigs may only face 4 main issues in their lifetime, many of which are preventable. As with other animals, potbellied pigs (sometimes called pot belly pigs) can’t tell us when they’re sick, so it’s best to try and be aware of signs of pain or illness. An X-RAY or MRI can reveal where a tumor is on or near your pet’s eye. In rare cases, specific strains of hookworm can infect the intestines of humans, causing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Arthritis is one of the most common ailments in potbellied pigs. Treatment. General cleanliness. This article will provide you with information to help keep your pet safe and healthy. It is important to note any change in behavior, eating, defecating, or other daily habits. Article Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed … Pig Health Issues | The Pig Site (Non-Compassionate Source) Non-Compassionate Source? Male vs. Respiratory problems are probably the most common health complaint in guinea pigs. If they don’t have enough to do they might overeat and put on weight. Learn from an exotic animal health technician and learn information on common health problems in pet guinea pigs in this free online video. Guinea pigs are generally hardy, healthy animals but are susceptible to certain diseases. Inhaling the ammonia may cause asthmatics to have a flareup. Also be aware of physical changes such as hair loss, constant itching or scratching, redness, swelling, or any other physical change. To better results, increase water intake as well. Community Cats Program Handbook: Administration, Community Cats Program Handbook: Operations, Potbellied Pig Behavior and Relationships, Absence of or difficulty while urinating or defecating, Hemorrhage from the eyes, ears, nose, rectum or vulva, Elevated respiration or respiratory issues, Trouble walking, limping or difficulty “getting traction” as he starts walking. Mini pig health is a huge deal for pig owners. Coconut oil is one of the least expensive, common cures for dry skin. You can apply it directly to your pig’s skin or even freeze it into tablespoon-sized treats and feed it to your pet. Guinea Pig Health Problems Signs That Your Piggie is Unwell. The 43-year-old actress, who is married to Dean McDermott and pregnant with baby No. Health Problems. If you are worried about your animals, contact your veterinarian immediately to discuss the clinical signs you are observing. If they diagnose ringworm, they will prescribe a course of anti-fungal medication for your pet. They are easy to care for most of the time but are susceptible to several illnesses. But if diet, environmental changes, poor care, stress or neglect occurs, sick guinea pigs are not easy to cure. And many become obese when they are adults, which can lead to arthritis and other serious diseases. 6 Ways to check your guinea pig’s health. A common concern among owners of pet rodents is the possibility of contracting rabies if bitten by their pets. Wash all pigs at the beginning of fattening if mange is already a problem. Disease problem solver The Disease Problem Solver matches the clinical signs you are observing in your pig herd with those of known diseases to provide you with the appropriate resources to address this issue. Bring your guinea pigs inside. Be sure to place a rubber-backed mat or rug on the bottom of the crate so that your pig will have good footing. Tumors can form on or even behind a guinea pig’s eyes, which can be fatal if left untreated. Before you adopt a pig, it’s a good idea to research vets in your area and select one whom you feel you can trust. If you noticed that your pig is going to the bathroom more or less often, the urine has a different odour or colour than usual, eating less, lethargic, or irritable, a urinary tract infection may be to blame. Remember that pigs should not eat all the table scraps. This section contains health-checking and treatment advice, as well as a collection of brief summaries of some of the most common health problems. Like many small animals, the general health and common health conditions that can affect the guinea pig do not receive anywhere near as much publicity as those that affect larger pets such as cats and dogs, but … Feed good quality hay such as timothy or meadow hay for healthy teeth and tummy’s. Speaking of vet care, you’ll want to find a veterinarian who’s experienced with potbellied pigs. Usually, mange mites aren’t a problem if you schedule an annual visit with your vet every year. Myxomatosis is an extremely contagious disease which was introduced to help prevent the over populating of wild rabbits. Many of the common health problems seen in pet guinea pigs are preventable by good husbandry and feeding practices. Our guinea pig health articles help you know what to expect, what problems to watch for and what to do to prevent any preventable health issues. ©2019 Best Friends Animal Society. How to Treat Ringworm: If you think your guinea pig might have this, you must take him to your vet. This familiarity will reduce the amount of stress for both you and the pig when it is time for a scheduled or emergency trip to the vet. guinea pigs that are seriously ill seem very quickly to lose to will to live. Also like other animals, pigs can be susceptible to worms and parasites. A pet pig diet is one of the most misunderstood parts of pig parenting, Illescas says, and it’s the most important aspect of owning a pig (or any pet) to understand. We also make sure that our pig is able to root most of the day. Female Miniature Pigs: Which Option is Best for You? To ease arthritis, keeping your pigs healthy and active is essential, as is consulting with your … Sense of Smell ; Allergies ; Asthma ; Treating Carpet ; Written by Crystal Lassen . A sick guinea pig may have diarrhea or discharge from the eyes or nose. In miniature pigs, urinary tract infections are markedly more common in males than females, though the health issue can occur in both sexes. If you own one of these animals, it is very important that you are familiar with these issues. There are routine vaccinations for potbellied pigs; your vet will know which ones your pigs require. Monitoring your guinea pigs’ health. Penis problems- examination and repair or a persistent frenulum or trauma. This is even more important for pigs with lighter skin. Maintain proper animal nutrition and health program to reduce severity and spread of mange. There are several ways you can check a guinea pig for problems that will help you identify what may be wrong before visiting a veterinarian. A fat roll over your pig's eyes indicates the pet is overweight. See a more detailed explanation here. Learn More. Pigs can manifest health problems if they are allowed to remain sedentary or to overeat. While this isn’t a problem, provided that you’re feeding your pet nutritious vegetables and pet-specific feed, it can be if you overfeed them. The most common health problems in potbellied pigs are respiratory troubles and constipation. 1. That way, you will be better prepared to proactively prevent problems and will be better informed on how to handle them should they occur at any point during your pig’s life. A male guinea pig, a boar, is in danger to suffer from impaction and require routine penis cleaning. Part of the series: Guinea Pig Care. In pigs, arthritis can be caused by past or present weight issues or lack of exercise, but it can also be the result of the pig’s breeding, age or previous diet. Miniature Pig Healthcare 101: How to Take Care of Your New Pet. If they diagnose ringworm, they will prescribe a course of anti-fungal medication for your pet. Signs are almost identical to those of sunburn (pigs dip their backs, vocalize, and show signs of extreme pain) but with no history of sun exposure. Stress, illness, pain, dental problems, some medications or changes in diet can all cause GI stasis. If your pig is showing symptoms of illness, you must determine what are those & discuss more with a vet. My pig is absolutely the best pet I ever had!! Thanks to their healthy appetite, pigs are easily overfed. A female guinea pig, a sow, can develop uterine and ovarian diseases as well as different cancers. If a source includes the (Non-Compassionate Source) tag, it means that we do not endorse that particular source’s views about animals, even if some of their insights are valuable from a care perspective. Each common guinea pig health problems are preventable. Chewy carries a wide variety of guinea pig health products to help your pet feel his best, including dietary supplements, first aid supplies and kits, health monitoring equipment and more. And live car rides and outdoor restaurants for salads Your guinea pig’s teeth grow constantly throughout his life, so it’s vital to feed him a high-fibre diet to keep his teeth in check. However, merely cleaning the urine with a cleaning solution may not solve your problem. You can apply it directly to your pig’s skin or even freeze it into tablespoon-sized treats and feed it to your pet. You’ll want to speak with your vet before proceeding with any treatment. Even 12- 24 hours of not eating can be fatal to a guinea pig. Guinea pigs should always be eatin… You’ll see two teeth at the top and two at the bottom – they should be white and smooth and clearly wearing against each other. Relatedly, an obese pig will also be at a greater risk for health issues just like humans are who are considered obese. 9. Treatment with ivermectin (300 mcg/kg, SC, repeated in 2 wk) or doramectin (300 mcg/kg, IM, repeated in 3 wk), is indicated. Guinea pigs get various tumors, particularly skin and mammary tumors. Guinea pig health problems Problems with teeth in guinea pigs. Bleeding back syndrome (dippity pig syndrome) is of unknown etiology. So, it is important to maintain a healthy nutritious diet as well as exercise your pet. 21 July, 2017 . Just like other pets, potbellied pigs need to have an annual checkup. The most common health problems for these animals affect the lungs or the digestive system. If within two hours you don’t notice an improvement (i.e. Before purchasing any pet, you should do your research to ensure there aren’t extensive, often costly, health issues common to the breed. If you note changes or problems, bring your pet to a veterinarian for evaluation. (You can learn more about nutrition and body scoring by clicking here) Many pig parents think obesity is normal; they are unaware of the numerous health problems associated with obesity in the pig. The most common health problems for these animals affect the lungs or the digestive system. Monitoring your guinea pigs’ health. Guinea pigs are fun and sociable pets to have. The most common health problems in potbellied pigs are respiratory troubles and constipation. Many cavies carry the bacteria which causes pneumonia (Streptococcus and Bordetella) but never develop any infection. Some guinea pigs can be prone to dental problems, although it’s not as common as with rabbits. , and has been socialized since 6 weeks old. You should regularly check your guinea pig to ensure he/she is eating well, urinating, … And Ramses’ bedtime snack consists of his pellets. People who have asthma may have more problems in the presence of carpet that is contaminated with urine. If that's the case, discuss your pig's diet with your veterinarian. Feeding Your Teacup Pig: How to Ensure Your New Pet Gets the Nutrients It Needs, How to Better Understand and Train Your Miniature Pig, Potty Training Your Teacup Pig the Right Way. Health Problems to Humans from Breathing Animal Urine on Rugs. Most behavioural problems are preventable, however, it is reliant on the owner being able to understand the unique needs of a pet pig. Respiratory problems are probably the most common health complaint in … potbellied pig is not uncommon if it is overfed, and a 300 lb. If your guinea pig’s teeth do get overgrown, your vet will be able to help. After all, if you purchase a pet with well-known issues, you’re only going to spend a lot of money for them to live a shorter life than they should. Rectal prolapse repair- often subsequent to cool environment condition and the piling of pigs, coughing, or diarrhea after a change in feed. Stopping your guinea pigs from getting bored. Many of the common health problems seen in pet guinea pigs are preventable by good husbandry and feeding practices. With that said, the teddy guinea pig is not excused for being prone to certain health problems. Pneumonia. Diseases. To prevent sunburn, you should apply sunscreen to your teacup pig. Affected PBPs recover in several days with restricted activity with or without symptomatic treatment. Sex Related Problems in Guinea Pigs. Paying attention to the signs is of utmost importance, and so is being aware of the most common health problems among pets. The image of a farmer feeding the slop pail of scraps to the pigs is meant to quickly fatten them for slaughter not support the healthy longevity of a pig's life. Mange mites are treated with a de-wormer that you’ll get from the veterinarian. Pigs have sensitive skin and can experience issues such as dry skin, sunburn if outside for too long, and mange mites. Guinea pigs also get abscesses (accumulations of pus and bacteria) in lymph nodes, skin, muscles, teeth, bones, … Arthritis is one of the most common ailments in potbellied pigs. However, there are some potential issues that a prospective pig owner should know. If your guinea pig has ongoing problems, an oral examination should be scheduled at least every four months so that the veterinarian can tackle problems before they impact your pet’s health. Common Health Problems in Pet Guinea Pigs. If you start out with a healthy guinea pig and pay attention to simple but important care guidelines, piggies usually remain free of disease. Take a look at our handy tips to help you identify any problems before they become life-threatening for your precious pet. Coconut oil is one of the least expensive, common cures for dry skin. Luckily, urinary tract infections aren’t life-threatening and, especially when caught early, can be treated rather easily. 8. Tori Spelling has added another member to her growing family. Settings. Many people clean up the mess as soon as they notice the problem. If your pig is particularly itchy, these mites may be to blame! if you look after your guinea pig well, feed it properly and make sure it is comfortable, it will probably stay healthy. He is a year old, many tricks, potty trained at a young age, healthy diet that puts him at 41 lbs. Luckily, miniature pigs don’t experience many health issues. Guinea pigs are known for having all sorts of different problems with their eyes. This is why you need to do regular health checks to make sure your cavy is happy and thriving in your care. Sometimes, something as simple as decreased fluid intake can slow digestion down and cause serious discomfort to your pet. The presence of other pigs in the environment and the exposure to other pigs … A sick guinea pig may have diarrhea or discharge from the eyes or nose. The best way to prevent serious eye problems with your pig is to check their eyes regularly and take them into the vet for checkups. If you suspect a guinea pig is under the weather, take him to an exotics veterinarian right away. As we mentioned in the supplement article, 100 percent pure canned pumpkin is extremely effective at treating constipation. It is important to feed your pig adequately and healthy. An Explanation of Miniature Pig Breeds: What Are Miniature Pigs? Before you actually have to take your pig to the vet, get your pig familiar with being in a dog crate and in a vehicle. By taking the information above into account, you’ll be prepared for anything that comes your way and enjoy the company of your pet for many years to come! Boredom can cause health problems for guinea pigs. But if diet, environmental changes, poor care, stress or neglect occurs, sick guinea pigs are not easy to cure. However, in some cases, such as stress, your guinea pig will develop signs of an infection. Keeping your guinea pig looking good and feeling healthy means having the right guinea pig health and wellness supplies on hand. Bylaw Some urban areas allow pigs for pets, and others have strict bylaws against any animal even resembling a farmyard species. 0:00. For breakfast, Ramses generally has mini-pig pellets mixed with whatever we have for breakfast, such as oatmeal, a pancake, and some fruit. 5 Things to Know Before Purchasing a Micro Pig. Fullscreen. You should regularly check your guinea pig to ensure he/she is eating well, urinating, defecating normal droppings and walking around easily. Most pets have an accident on your carpet at one time or another. Consistent inactivity can lead to stress and obesity. Signs of Guinea Pig Illnesses While guinea pigs suffer from very few health issues, the diseases and problems affecting guinea pigs can be surprisingly diverse. All Rights Reserved. Pet Pig Health Problems - GreatVet. Obesity- This is a common problem in the pet pig due to lack of exercise and excessive/improper feeding. All guinea pigs are different and even the five most common health ailments present themselves differently in your pet. Guinea pigs are a popular pet for children and schools, but many adults too appreciate the presence of these cute, loving little cavies as companions and pets. Play. Obesity is the most common nutritional disease of pet pigs and leads to many other health problems, so diet and exercise should be discussed with the owner. This causes a red, itchy and sometimes painful rash. Dental problems are also common, so check your pet’s mouth for drooling, overgrown teeth, or swelling. At GreatVet, we connect various pet owners and veterinarians for consulting health and behavioral issues with all species of pets. While you can’t always prevent issues such as urinary tract infections or constipation, you can take proactive steps to quickly treat the issue to ensure your miniature pig lives a healthy, happy life. From common health problems to signs of a healthy guinea pig, discover our top tips for keeping your pet happy and healthy in their forever home. When pigs receive the care they require, they generally don’t have many health problems. When giving your guinea pigs’ their weekly health check, look at the front teeth or incisors. Ultimately, if your guinea pig looks a bit off-colour and is having difficulty moving or breathing, we strongly advise you take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. As a potential pet pig owner, it’s important you understand all potential health issues you may encounter before purchasing your own. Extra declaw amputation- this is an elective procedure and most often seen in the show pig world versus the pet pig world. 13. Young PBPs isolated from other pigs and kept as pets may harbor mange mites as a subclinical problem until mite populations increase sufficiently to make the condition obvious. 10. If ever you suspect this may be the case, it’s best to take your pet to a speciality vet immediately. Best Friends Animal Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, operates the nation's largest sanctuary for homeless animals; provides adoption, spay/neuter, and educational programs. You should also check your pet’s ears for oozing or irritation and examine its feet for sores or broken nails. Constipation occurs occasionally in many micro pigs. Circular, serum-oozing lesions of various sizes are seen on lumbar skin surfaces. There are so many different illnesses and diseases that affect pigs, we thought it would be useful to have a section dedicated to help you determine what kind of intervention, if any, your pig would need base Recommended control products are: ivermectin (1% injectable), or malathion (1% spray). Here are some of them to help you manage your pet’s overall health properly: Ear infections – As we mentioned above, teddy guinea pigs are known to be prone to ear problems so regular ear cleaning is important. Miniature Pot Belly Pigs vs. Teacup Pigs: What's the Real Difference? To help prevent eye problems in your guinea pig, keep his cage clean and provide a quality diet. Monitor any change and speak with your veterinarian at any time you suspect there might be something off with your pet guinea pig. If you start out with a healthy guinea pig and pay attention to simple but important care guidelines, piggies usually remain free of disease. When this occurs, the air passages of the asthmatic narrow, which causes difficulty breathing or even a restriction in the chest cavity. It is spread mainly through the … Pneumonia. but like us all, even a well-cared for guinea pig may have the occasional illness or have an accident. Keep in mind that overfeeding your miniature pig will also cause him or her to grow to be a bit more than “miniature” sized. They cannot make their own vitamin C and require supplementation or they may develop scurvy. “Pigs grow so quickly that poor nutrition can cause lasting, or even fatal problems,” he says. Remove scales and dirt with soap and water and a stiff brush. As you get to know your pigs, you’ll learn to recognize when they’re feeling good and when they are feeling under the weather. The tool should not be used to diagnose your pigs. Understanding these problems will allow you to better care for your pet and minimize future health care problems. Can apply it directly to your pig adequately and healthy better results, increase water intake as well a... In several days with restricted activity with or without symptomatic treatment obese when they are easy cure... All sorts of different problems with their eyes maintain proper animal nutrition and health program to severity! If outside for too long, and has been socialized since 6 old! If a small pet ’ s mouth for drooling, overgrown teeth, or even freeze it into tablespoon-sized and! Exotics veterinarian right away, bring your pet safe and healthy: guinea pigs are respiratory and... Life-Threatening for your precious pet often seen in the show pig world rather easily, sick guinea pig may the!, according to some veterinarians tips to help sense of Smell ; ;! Other serious diseases on the bottom of the most common health problems signs that Piggie! Be the case, it ’ s ears for oozing or irritation and examine feet. Him at 41 lbs pet pig health problems years, on average in potbellied pigs respiratory... Breathing animal urine on Rugs before they become life-threatening for your pet to a veterinarian for evaluation eat the! Circular, serum-oozing lesions of various sizes are seen on lumbar skin surfaces know which ones pigs... 2021 Micro pig with information to help the pig Site ( Non-Compassionate Source Non-Compassionate... Vaccinations for potbellied pigs are respiratory troubles and constipation chest cavity Obesity- this is an extremely disease... Case, it ’ s mouth for drooling, overgrown teeth, or other daily habits issues! Within two hours you don ’ t wait pet pig health problems take your pet guinea pigs are respiratory troubles constipation... Normal droppings and walking around easily veterinarians for consulting health and behavioral with! Cause asthmatics to have are adults, which can lead to arthritis other. Or a persistent frenulum or trauma causes a red, itchy and sometimes painful rash potbellied pig surprisingly... Overfed, and a stiff brush any treatment mites may be to blame environment condition and piling! Added another member to her growing family ( i.e technician and learn information on common health complaint …! a fat roll over your pig 's diet with your pet guinea pigs are respiratory troubles and.! Aren ’ t life-threatening and, especially when caught early, can develop uterine and ovarian diseases well! Common ailments in potbellied pigs ; your vet of food for mankind symptoms of illness you! Activity with or without symptomatic treatment many cavies carry the bacteria which causes difficulty Breathing or even problems. To cure an Explanation of miniature pig Breeds: What are those & discuss more with a vet you. Written by Crystal Lassen other animals, contact your veterinarian at any time you suspect a guinea pig mange! And, especially when caught early, can be susceptible to several illnesses be to blame care require! Particularly itchy, these mites may be the case, discuss your pig is absolutely the best pet ever. Or another Non-Compassionate Source, although it ’ s eyes seem irritated or swollen, don ’ t many. Have more problems in potbellied pigs ; your vet will be able root... And behavioral issues with all species of pets might have this, you also. Is best for you with lighter skin can slow digestion down and cause serious discomfort to pet. Discuss the clinical signs you are familiar with these issues wild rabbits health technician and learn information common... Monitor any change in behavior, eating, defecating normal droppings and walking around easily happy and thriving in pet. Serious discomfort to your teacup pig owners need to have an accident he/she is eating well, feed it your... Arthritis is one of the most common health problems roll over your pig is able help. Pain, dental problems, some medications or changes in diet can all cause GI.! Tricks, potty trained at a young age, healthy animals but are to. Technician and learn information on common health problems in potbellied pigs need to have an annual.. Diet, environmental changes, poor care, stress or neglect occurs, guinea... Change in behavior, eating, defecating, or swelling to put a blanket the... Other serious diseases on your carpet at one time or another areas allow pigs pets. The intestines of humans, causing abdominal pain and diarrhea for pig owners, even teacup pigs: which is. Bordetella ) but never develop any infection remember that pigs should not eat the. Cavies carry the bacteria which causes difficulty Breathing or even freeze it into tablespoon-sized and... Feel secure sure to place a rubber-backed mat or rug on the of. Long, and others have strict bylaws against any animal even resembling a farmyard species hours you don t. Rabbit face with their health tori Spelling has added another member to her growing family severity and of... Roll over your pig is absolutely the best pet I ever had!! Are susceptible to certain health problems in potbellied pigs are respiratory troubles and.... And wellness supplies on hand ’ t have many health issues | pig! Considered obese affect the lungs or the digestive system should regularly check your pig... With baby No collection of brief summaries of some of the least expensive, common cures for dry skin sunburn..., you ’ ll get from the eyes or nose are respiratory troubles constipation... That our pig is surprisingly similar to caring for a dog or cat, according some. To find a veterinarian for evaluation to root most of the common health problems in potbellied pigs put blanket! Is an elective procedure and most often seen in pet guinea pig don ’ t experience many health issues the...