A sick pig

Question
Hello Mary,

I have a seven year old(close to eight) male guinea pig. Through the past couple of days he has been whining and having trouble moving his bowels, but it is not just consipation. He will not eat or drink at all. We give him fresh lettuce, alfafa, and normal dry food. Despite that some of those things can help him, he turns his head away from the food and stays in his box. I don't know if this is from discomfort or that he may be sick. I understand that he is old and it may just be an elderly effect, but I fear that this may kill him and I love him too much to see him die in such a painful way. Please help me.

Answer
Hi Kacee
have a look just inside the anus as this could be impaction and is not life threatening if dealt with.
There will be a clump of poo possibly with white greasy stuff on it,and a horrible smell if this is the case.
If there is a clump of poo you will need to help him move it.He will NOT like htis but of done gently its more discomfort than pain.
Anal impaction is caused by a weakness in the sphincter muscles of older boars and your lad is in that age group.
Gather together a bowl of warm water, some cotton buds, vaseline and rubber gloves. Have someone hold your boy so he is facing you and gently part the anus,using a bud dipped inthe warm water,gently wipe away any clumps of poo.If you manage to clear some poo,smear some vaseline just inside the anus as this might make him feel more comfy
If on the other hand there is no poo,I would take him to the vet for a better diagnosis.
It sounds like your boy has been very well cared for and I hope all goes well