Guinea Pig (coughing)

Question
QUESTION: One of my Guinea Pigs have started coughing,and snezzing what should I do.

ANSWER: Hi Veronica

If you are ever concerned about your piggies health, then please consult a vet.

However, some things to consider are: What bedding do you use, have you bathed your piggy recently, how often does your pig cough/sneeze?

Perhaps you could answer the above for me and I will help you further. Also, please hold your piggy close to your ear so you can clearly hear her breathing. Is there a click between the inhale and exhale? If there is, this is evidence of an infection which will need medical treatment.

I look forward to hearing from you regarding the other points.

Thanks

andy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I use pine chips and I bath them once a week in baby shampoo, He just started do that Friday night and I have not heard him do it today. another question i have if i give them Kale everyday and dry food with Hay, and carrots 3 time a week, along with some fruit, do i still need to put the V-C in there water and is it okay to have these two males together, they are about 7 months old and they seam to get along.

Thanks
Veronica

Answer
Hi again

Pine chips is not the best bedding to use for guinea pigs due to the oils it contains. I would recommend a mixture of hay and shredded paper.

A bath each week is a little excessive as piggies generally dont like the experience. Once every 3 months is adequate unless he gets really messy.

The dry food usually comes with added vitamin c, so with the veggies, a suppliment isnt neccesary.

Yes, the two males can live together fine as long as they get along.

Keep an eye on that cough and let me know if it happens again

Andy