Loss of appetite Slow movement or lack of activity Incontinence Less playful behavior Labored breathing
Thickened, twisted toes Cataracts (cloudy eyes) Tumors/growths on the body or head Stiffness in the joints/hobbling
You should always note your pet’s energy level relative to his younger, healthier self. Some guinea pigs may have always been lazy; if yours is this way, then his slowness may not be a sign that he is nearing the end of his life. If your pet is overweight, his fatigue may be a result of this. Keep your pet healthy by monitoring his food and treats and keeping his intake at a normal level.
In some cases, an aging or terminally ill guinea pig may be in a great deal of pain (depending on the nature of his malady); if your vet tells you that this is the case for your pet, consider whether euthanasia is the most humane option. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
It might be a good idea to separate your ailing guinea pig from his friends if he is in pain or the other guinea pig tries to rough-house with him. You will need to make this judgment yourself based on the situation.
Many animals (and people) are much more sensitive to cold as they age and begin to die, so keeping your older guinea pig’s cage environment slightly warmer than you used to can improve his comfort substantially. Use a material or cloth that your guinea pig is familiar with to enhance his comfort with the situation.
Don’t force your guinea pig to eat or drink if he doesn’t want to. You simply want to make these things accessible to him if he can’t get them himself. Make sure anything you feed your guinea pig is well-blended so he doesn’t have to use up precious energy chewing (which he might not be able to do, anyway).
Many guinea pigs like to have their foreheads gently stroked. If you know your pet enjoys this, do this as he passes away. Take note of any body language or noises your guinea pig may be making and adjust your physical contact with him accordingly; don’t do anything that causes your pet pain.
If there is a specific toy or other item you know your guinea pig is fond of, place this object next to him. The simple presence of items he enjoys may provide your pet a sense of calm. Treat your dying guinea pig as you would a sleeping baby; anything that is likely to wake a snoozing infant will probably also be unpleasant for your pet.
It may help the grieving process to incorporate your guinea pig’s body disposal into a memorial or burial ritual. Be sure your treatment of your guinea pig’s remains does not violate any laws or health/safety regulations. For example, don’t dig a grave on someone else’s property or set a fire where prohibited.
If you take your dying guinea pig out of his cage and never return him, your other pet may become anxious or mournful as a result of having been “abandoned” by his companion. It is not necessary to leave the deceased guinea pig’s corpse alone with the remaining animal; simply showing him the body of his companion and letting him sniff around for a moment should suffice.
Hold a pet burial. Share funny stories about your pet with friends and family. Look through old photos of your guinea pig. Plant a flower or tree in tribute.
Seek support from friends, family members, or groups of individuals who are going through a similar situation. Avoid individuals who can’t understand your grief or who make light of your feelings in any way. Allow yourself to be sad and avoid thinking that your feelings are “silly” or “unjustified. "
