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Why is my guinea pig spinning in circles and tilting its head?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | 2 lbs

Why is my guinea pig spinning in circles and tilting his head?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 8th, 2017

Hi there, this could be a few things. Ear infections can cause a head tilt to the affected side (usually) and your pet may spin due to feeling off balance. Trauma is also possible as is something like a tumor. Charlie will need to see a vet as soon as possible for a full evaluation.

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ann Dion, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 25th, 2017
Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It sounds like your little guinea pig may have a serious condition that could be an infection within the brain or a parasite in the brain. It could also be an ear infection. It is important to have your little one checked by a vet. They may be able to get some antibiotics for your guinea pig depending on what they see on physical exam. They may also need to do some x-rays to look at the inner ear canal bulla. Best of luck with Daisy and Stella.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on February 11th, 2018
Possible causes of the signs you are seeing include inner ear infection, stroke, brain tumor,infections or inflammatory diseases of the brain and/or spinal cord. Without something like a CT you probably won’t get a full diagnosis. However, if this were my patient I would consider doing a trial course of antibiotics and possibly steroids to see if there was any improvement. I would encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. They may have other ideas after an examination. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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