What is this black mark on my guinea pig's hind foot? Is it normal?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! From the pictures Mills’s paw looks normal and the black area looks like pigment changes which is not abnormal. If you are concerned, a vet can biopsy the area to confirm but you can just continue to monitor at this time. Good luck and kisses to Milli!

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. This small spot does not look like anything of significance, and may just be a birth mark that she developed. If it does not bother Chibi at all, and she is not limping or licking at that foot, I would not be concerned. I hope this is helpful!

Hello, Guinea pigs can develop pododermatitis, or infections on the bottom of the feet, from standing on hard or wire surfaces. It's difficult to tell from the picture if the feet are abnormal or not. Check all four feet on both of the pigs to check for swellings, flaking, or changes in color. These are signs they need to be seen by a vet. Guinea pigs are very skittish prey animals, and it can take some time to earn their trust. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements. Spending time near them and being still, such as when reading or watching tv, can help them get used to being around you. Here is an article on guinea pig behavior that may help you better understand their social needs: https://lafeber.com/vet/behavior-basics-guinea-pig/ I hope this is helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

It could be the start of bumble foot. Be sure that his cage is softly bedded and he is not standing on hard surfaces. I just recommend you try this Vetericyn Spray Gel on the affected are a couple times per day until healed. https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetericyn-plus-antimicrobial-wound-and-skin-hydrogel-for-pets

If she isn't itching or rubbing at it, there is no cause for concern. It isn't reddened and there is no discharge. Whatever it is/was seems to be resolving or healing. Monitor for lethargy, loss of appetite, redness, discharge or odor. See your veterinarian if necessary.

This may be a small area of infection on your hamster’s foot or could be something like feces or a food particle that has gotten stuck there. I would recommend taking your hamster out and trying to clean the area with a warm, wet cloth and see if it goes away. If not, keep a close eye on it. If the spot becomes larger, the foot becomes swollen, or your hamster stops wanting to eat, you should take her in to be examined by a veterinarian. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

Hello. Thank you for using PetCoach! This looks like a ringworm lesion to me. http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=18+1800&aid=2494 You can try using a topical anti-fungal medication like Clotrimazole to see if it helps. Apply a thin layer to the lesion twice a day. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Antifungal-1-Clotrimazole-USP-Cream-1-oz-tube/950932820 Remember two important things: 1. It can take weeks to months for ringworm to resolve. If you are not making much progress with the cream after a couple weeks I would take her to the vet. They can give you an oral medication to use that may be more effective. 2. Ringworm can be contagious to people so wash your hands thoroughly after handling her. Hope this helps. Best wishes.