My guinea pig has a wound on her back. What should I do to help her?

Even though a picture would help to understand better the underlying cause, generally speaking this presentation could be due to a trauma or recurrence of the localized skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Bleeding must be stopped as soon as possible with gentle pressure. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Hello. It is difficult to tell exactly what might be going on with Shushka, but unfortunately, it does look like a tumor. I am glad that you already have plans to have her seen. Hopefully this is something that can be taken care of soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Most of the oral meds are on prescription and should be discussed with your local veterinarian. Disinfection of the skin may be achieved at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

Thanks for reahcing out about Gordo and including photos. Could there be aggression from another animal? External parasites (mites) can lead to itching, and the scratching to cause the lesions. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Cleaning with a warm, moistened wash cloth might help but avoid soaps or topical antibiotics, as guinea pigs are meticulous groomers and will ingest. Good luck.

I am sorry to hear about your guinea pig! I would recommend having him examined by a veterinarian. If some of his skin is torn or hanging, it could be painful and a source of infection. I would also want to examine inside his ear and the skin around his ear to see if tehre is a reason why he might have been itching at the ear. I would also recommend check the cage/bowls/etc. for areas that could be sharp/could cause injury.

I am so sorry for the delay in answering your question. Mites are very common in guinea pigs and may be the cause. Take her to your vet so they can determine if this is indeed the problem, and can advise you on how best to treat it. In the meantime, change the bedding daily and monitor her food and water intake--if she is lethargic, or is not eating or drinking, take her to the vet right away. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, and again I apologize for the delay!

My best guess is that this could be ringworm however it is impossible to tell just by looking at a photo. I suggest you get this spray and apply it 2-3 times daily on the affected area. ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetericyn-plus-antimicrobial-wound-and-skin-hydrogel-for-pets ) If after a week to 10 days it still is not resolving then you need to take her to a vet for an exam. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching her as ringworm, if it is that, is contagious to people.