Mites are common parasites that infest various
pets that are kept around the house. If the infestation is
allowed to progress skin irritation will occur and will only
get worse as time progresses. The skin will most likely become
flaky and irritated over time and your guinea pig will experience
varying degrees of hair loss.
Veterinarian assitance will be required to cure the mite
infestation. Injectable drugs are almost always prescribed
once the veterinarian confirms the diagnosis. Skin scarpings
work well to confirm that mites are present. As mentioned
above mites cause severe irritation to the skin of the guinea
pig so it is advised that you change the substrate from wood
shavings to something that is more comformatble for the guinea
pig.
You will want to change the substrate anyways because the
mites could also be in it which will not help to rid your
guinea pig of the infestation. While you are at it, you are
highly advised to disinfect the entire enclosure to ensure
no mites remain.
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