luey is coughing

Question
Luey is my 9 month old guinea pig.  He lives with his brother Edward.  We were on vacation and he stayed at my sisters apartment.  He started rubbing his back on his water bottle spout and has gotten very wet.  He has been home a day.  We moved the bottle up a bit so he can't reach it but tonight he has started coughing.  He does not have crusty eyes or a runny nose.  His skin does not appear to be dry or flaky.  No fur is coming out, he is just damp.  His cough is more like a choke.  He is eating and drinking normally.  What do you think?  We do have  a vet that can see him.  Just thought we would check with you first.  Thanks. Sam

Answer
I've never had a piggy with a cough but it usually means they're allergic to something or have a cold. He could have been allergic to something in your sister's apartment, or he could have caught a cold from getting wet. My guinea pigs often rub themselves on their water bottle though and it usually dries within a few minutes.

I'd recommend keeping him warm and giving him some fresh parsley to eat. If you're worried take him to a specialist small animal or exotic pet vet, even if it's just to set your mind at rest.

Good luck and best wishes,

Jenny.