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My guinea pig is sneezing with a crusty nose but acts normal. Vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 8 months old

My guinea pig is not acting sick but had a crust around her nose like it is runny and occasionally she sneezes. She is still eating and running around. Should I take her to a vet?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 25th, 2017

If the crust has any yellowish or green color to it then I would definitely recommend that she see a veterinarian. If it is only clear I would be less concerned. Keeping a very clean cage is important as the ammonia in the urine can be very irritating to the nasal and respiratory tract. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on February 10th, 2017
Poor Lilly! These are signs compatible with a possible upper respiratory sign infection and ideally should be checked as soon as possible by your local veterinarian as antibiotics may be needed. I would suggest to keep her cage away from any possible cold air flow.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 17th, 2017
I am sorry to hear about Popcorn. Sneezing can be a sign of respiratory infection in guinea pigs. Because of this, I would highly recommend an examination by a veterinarian if he is still sneezing, as we want to treat him as early as possible because guinea pigs can deteriorate quickly once very ill and become difficult to help. He may need an antibiotic to help clear this infection. Also cleaning his cage regularly to help reduce ammonia buildup from the urine and using a bedding that doesn't have dust or strong odor, such as the paper bedding Carefresh.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My guinea pig coughed twice. Is it serious? When to see a vet?

A clean cage is the most important thing you can do, as the ammonia from the urine causes a lot of irritation to the respiratory tract. Monitor closely for any more coughing or sneezing, and if this occurs she will really need to see a veterinarian for possible respiratory tract infection. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

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My 2-month-old guinea pig sneezes a lot but seems healthy. Is he sick?

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