Old age or Diabetes?

Question
Shadow (my Cavy) is working on his 4th year in February. Recently he's developed and increase of eye crust in his right eye. Naturally I cleaned it with a warm washcloth and told mom to keep an eye on him. (I was going to my friends house for the weekend.) When I returned on Monday, the eye crust was worse and he had a very cloudy eye, it looks slightly swollen and it hurts him. I did research and discovered that it's most likely cataracts, seeing as it's common in older piggies, but it happened so rapidly that I'm worried it might be diabetes. (He doesn't have allergies.)
But the issue is that we can't afford a vet. If it is diabetes, is there anything (vitamins, diet change, etc;) that I could to do help him with at home?

Answer
Hi Tara

From what you say, it sounds more like an eye infection which is the likely cause of the enlarged eye. The eye aways goes cloudy when it is infected or injured, so whilst cataracts is a possibility, with the crust it seems unlikely.

If I am right and it is an eye infection, I am afraid there is nothing I can tell you to give him as he needs antibiotic cream. Whilst I note your comments about a vet, the only place to get treatment is from a vet.

Diabetes isnt likely from what you tell me and your pig isnt particularly elderly although its a possibility but again only a vet can diagnose this as I cant see your pig.

I'm sorry I cant help more but as a pet owner, you need to be prepared for associated vets bills. I hope that doesnt sound harsh but its something I firmly believe.

Andy