Why is my guinea pig skinny? Is it digestion or other health issues?

Thanks for reaching out about Otis. As a middle aged guinea pig, there could be multiple causes for weight loss. Heart disease, kidney problems, gastrointestinal concerns, dietary deficiencies, dental disease, are all possible. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Good luck.

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear that Mickey isn't looking well. I'm glad to hear that he is eating, drinking, urinating, and defecating normally, as changes in any of these habits can indicate a disease process. It sounds like he has a great, healthy diet of hay, pellets, and vitamin C tablets - my only suggestion here would be to make sure that the fresh fruits and veggies offered to him are high in vitamin C (such as kale, parsley, guava, broccoli, and sweet peppers), as the tablets are usually only meant to supplement the fresh portion of the diet. It does not sound like Mickey is lacking in vitamin C, however (as you didn't mention any of the typical signs of scurvy), and the muscle loss you are describing is likely not due to anything missing in his diet. Without knowing his other potential symptoms and a full physical exam, the only other thing I can think of is age-related changes (you did not mention his age, but as you seem to has a great grasp of his usual body condition and his daily routine, so I assume that he is at least an adult). As guinea pigs age, they may develop conditions like arthritis, which could result in decreased activity, and therefore decreased muscle mass. These changes usually occur in older guinea pigs (5-7 years), but can start as early as 3 years old, depending on the individual guinea pig's weight and habits. I highly recommend that you get Mickey to the vet when you can - preferably a vet that is comfortable with guinea pigs, or an exotics specialist. It sounds like you are doing right by Mickey at home, but the only way to get to the bottom of his muscle loss is through a thorough veterinary exam. The vet will weigh him, listen to his heart and lungs, and make recommendations for other potential issues that can be checked and ruled out as causes. This may include x-rays or bloodwork. In the meantime, keeping Mickey active with mild to moderate exercise regularly can help keep those joints lubricated and prevent further muscle loss. If Mickey appears at all painful, or if any of his habits change, you should contact a vet as soon as possible. Good luck!

Weight loss, this can be caused by many things. Visit your veterinarian as soon as possible so Donald can have an examination. Causes of weight loss include dental problems, liver or kidney diseases, intestinal disease, endocrine disease, infection and toxins — just to name a few. Your veterinarian, using his or her skills of examination and possibly some tests, can best tell what is wrong with your guinea pig.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Issues with teeth are very common in guinea pigs, and do frequently result in issues eating. Dyba may have an issue with his facial nerves or muscles, making it difficult to bite/chew food. Loss of appetite can be caused by many intestinal conditions, but less specific conditions as well, such as cancer or infections. I recommend having Dyba seen by another vet, you may want to look into having him seen by someone who specializes in small mammals or pocket pets. In the meantime, you can try moistening his pellets to make them easier to eat. I hope this helps and that all is well!

Hello, When I see guinea pigs with hair loss (usually over their backs) and weight loss, I often think of reproductive tract problems. Guinea pigs commonly get ovarian cysts and the extra estrogen production causes hormonal hair loss. Four ounces is significant weight loss for a guinea pig, and I would recommend having her checked to be sure of what is going on. I hope this is helpful.

Thanks for reaching out about Whisky and including a photo. By the picture, she appears thin. Dental, renal and heart diseases should all be considered. Intestinal infections, malabsorption and scurvy can also have similar signs. A veterinary visit is highly recommended to assess the condition and provide guidance, as each of these have different treatments. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Squish and including a photo. Soft stool or diarrhea in guinea pigs have many causes other than bacterial or dietary. Metabolic problems such as liver or kidney disease, bladder stones, urinary tract infections, bacterial or parasitic enteritis, dental disease, just to name a few. A veterinary visit and examination could really help you with diagnostic and treatment plans. Maintaining hydration and nutrition are very important, as you are already working on. Good luck.