An inner ear infection can cause symptoms like head tilt, walking in circles, inability to walk, loss of balance, and rolling onto the side. [3] X Research source Middle ear infections commonly have mild symptoms of respiratory illnesses, such as sneezing, discharge from the nose and ears, and wheezing.
Pus or discharge from the ears. [5] X Research source Ear pain. [6] X Research source Loss of hearing. [7] X Research source Deafness. [8] X Research source And inflammation of the inner eardrum. [9] X Research source
Walking in circles. [10] X Research source Rolling on the ground. [11] X Research source Head tilting. [12] X Research source And a lack of balance. [13] X Research source
Pneumonia and other respiratory diseases are caused by several bacteria, including Bordetella and Streptococcus. These bacteria tend to be ‘opportunistic,’ meaning they infect susceptible animals, multiply, and cause disease if the opportunity arises. [14] X Research source Some respiratory diseases are contagious and can be transmitted from one guinea pig to another through airborne transmission. Separate sick guinea pigs from their herd as soon as possible. [15] X Research source
Set up a temporary cage using a large cardboard box or a transportable enclosure. Line the base of the cage with towels and provide hay, pellets, and water.
An antiseptic or antibiotic wash will be administered to remove discharge or buildup. [18] X Research source
Ear drops should be administered by slightly tilting your guinea pig’s head to the side, and holding their head in the same position after applying the medicine to prevent your guinea pig from shaking the drops out. [19] X Research source Your veterinarian may also administer oral antibiotics, which can be syringe-fed to your guinea pig by placing the syringe into the side of your guinea pig’s mouth.
If your guinea pig’s symptoms worsen, take them to a vet as soon as possible.
Maintaining a clean and sanitised living environment for your guinea pig will help reduce the levels of infectious organisms in their home. [20] X Research source Use an anti-bacterial (pet-friendly) cleaning product or a white vinegar solution to get rid of harmful bacteria. Practice spot-cleaning by scooping up droppings, replacing wet patches, and removing food debris to keep the bedding fresher between washes.
Wash your hands for 20 to 30 seconds with soap and warm water.
Do not introduce your pets to each other and do not house your guinea pig with other species.
Bell peppers (or capsicums) can be fed on a daily basis due to their high vitamin C content. Other vitamin C enriched vegetables include parsley, spinach, kale, broccoli, and cauliflower. [23] X Research source Look for adult guinea pig pellets that are fortified with vitamin C. Oxbow adult guinea pig pellets are vet recommended and should be fed to your guinea pig in 1/8 cup servings each day. Ask your vet for vitamin C supplements. Water drops and nutrient blocks that can be found commercially in pet stores are not recommended unless a veterinarian advises you to supplement your guinea pigs vitamin C. Ideally, your guinea pig should be consuming enough vitamin C from their vegetables and pellets.
