Sneezing

Question
I took my guinea pig to a veterinarian a few weeks ago and he was diagnosed with a URI (although, at the time the only symptom he really had was watery eyes, and, as you mentioned to me in a previous post, some veterinarians over-diagnose URI's).   He never really seemed to show other symptoms - he has been eating very well, runs his cute little laps every morning and night :), and is very playful during floor time.  However, I noticed today that he sneezed a few times while he was in a hide-house, and then again when he was running around.  He still seems very healthy otherwise, and I haven't heard any other sneezes, no wet nose, loss of appetite, etc.  I am going to take him to a veterinarian, but I would appreciate if you could give me your opinion as well.  Could the hay be irritating his respiratory system?  I use Oxbow Timothy Hay.  Also, I set out towels etc. in his "potty" areas, but other than that he runs around on the carpet - could this cause any problems to your knowledge?    Thank you so much for your input - you have been so much help!  I always feel bad writing such a long question!

One last, quick question:  In your experience, at what age do guinea pigs reach their adult weight, and what would a healthy adult weight be?  Thanks again!

Answer
I do remember we talked about this. I'm wondering if what he is doing is making that little sound that does sound like a sneeze but I'm not sure if it's a sneeze in the same way humans sneeze. If he's running around like a happy little camper and eating well I'm not sure that I would try to fix what doesn't sound like it's broken.

The Oxbow Timothy hay is a very clean (and expensive) hay. I doubt that's the problem. Truthfully I don't think he's really got a problem, he just makes these little noises now and then. Most of mine do too. I tend to think that with a guinea pig we get concerned over little things that we wouldn't' for our dogs or cats. Dogs sneeze too, but unless it's relentless sneezing we just say "God Bless You" and go on.

I think it might be something that doesn't really need to be fixed. Sounds like he's a happy bouncy little dude that's loving life and has a good mom that worries about him.

As for weight, the standard for a senior is 32 oz and/or six months. Some pigs reach senior weight before they're four months old. There are others who never get there. Satins tend to be smaller in weight than their normal coated counterparts. If a pig doesn't reach senior weight we don't show them after six months, but they're perfectly healthy and happy and still make wonderful pets.  

I hope that answers your questions. My advice for the sneezing worries are for you to sit down with a nice cup of tea, watch him popcorn around at floor time and when he sneezes (again,assuming it isn't so much it affects his ability to eat or play) just say, "Now isn't that just too cute."  (I don't know how to make a smiley face on here for you or I would)