Feet infections are common in some types of
pet guinea pigs. This is especially true for guinea pigs that
walk directly on the wire that makes up the bottom of their
cage. Open wounds on their feet can also cause infections
if left untreated.
One of the best ways to avoid this is by placing a flat piece
of wood across the floor of the cage to avoid direct contact
with the wires. You can then place your wood shavings on top
of this. This will work well to reduce the stress of your
guinea pigs daily activities on their feet.
The feet of guinea pigs that are infected will typically
be swollen and the swelling will get worse over time. The
guinea pig may also be reluctant to move around the cage as
movement will cause pain.
Antibiotics will most likely be required to clear up the
infection which will require consultation with a veterinarian.
Most of the time the veterinarian will dress the feet in bandages
or gauze to protect the feet while they are recovering. You
will need to change this regularly as it is likely the guinea
pig will try to remove it. If the infection is allowed to
progress arthritis is an unfortunate consequence.
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