Guinea pigs are generally very active animals, and signs of any health problems become immediately visible. In addition, the deterioration rate of the guinea pig is very fast and if not treated immediately, it could result in sudden death.

• Some of the most common health disorders found in these animals include hair loss, pneumonia and malnutrition (where there is deficiency of vitamin C and other vital nutrients required by the body).

• Aging of guinea pigs results in debility.

• Abnormal dietary habits results in diarrhea and intestinal problems. Hence, it is better to avoid feeding your guinea pigs with foods rich in starches, sugar, carbohydrates and fruits.

• Pasteurellosis is another common bacterial disease causing respiratory disorders, abscesses as well as infections in the eye.

• Streptococcal infections are bacterial infections that could be fatal to the guinea pig if not treated in the early stages.

• Guinea pigs generally do not refrain from eating and hence, if you see the pig refraining from food, then it is important to immediately seek medical help as there is a very high possibility that the guinea pig is sick.

• Anorexia results in the breaking of liver cells which deteriorates the health of the pig rapidly.

• Swollen abdomen may be a result of blockage in the intestine and could turn fatal if not treated.

• Heart problems and blood circulation problems manifest by excessive panting, snout and blue-tinged lips. Sometimes, oxygen needs to be given externally and the fluid in the lungs needs to be checked.

• Pregnancy complications can arise if there is excessive bleeding. The guinea pig should not strain more than 10 minutes while delivering the baby or stop trying to deliver due to exhaustion. Sometimes, the pigs squeal too much while delivering and the placenta is not produced during the delivery.

• Pigs suffering from diarrhea look very ill and are not active.

• Intestinal problems are indicated by discharge of foul-smelling black liquid.

• Administration of antibiotics should be done only after consulting a veterinarian. Side effects caused due to antibiotics can result in indigestion problems as the useful bacteria can also be killed.

• Toxins get accumulated in the intestine as the intestinal flora is lost during the administration of these drugs. Consult a vet and administer probiotics to restore the intestinal flora.

• Sudden change in the dietary habits and excessive consumption of raw fruits and vegetables may result in mild diarrhea.

• Tilting of head to one side and difficulty in walking are common symptoms of ear infection.

• Malocclusion is a dental problem associated with the overgrowth of molars which results in starving and weight loss as the pets drool and find a lot of difficulty in eating. This is generally mistaken for another disease called scurvy caused due to lack of vitamin C.

• Open wounds, scaly skin, excessive scratching and pain are signs of fungal infections in the pigs.

Guinea pigs do not recover automatically if they catch infections. They require external help to fight against infections.