Guinea Pig Underweight?

Question
QUESTION: Someone just gave me two guinea pigs.  I have two already but am still learning about them.   The two new ones seem to be underweight, but I really can't tell.  When I touch them, I feel their bones.  They are long hair gp's and they seem to have a longer body type than my other two short hairs.   I'm feeding them good quality pellets, fresh fruit and vegetables every day but they just don't eat like "piggies" like the others do.  I'm also feeding them hay.   They seem to drink and urinate a lot.  I'm just afraid they aren't gaining enough weight.   Anything you can suggest?   Thank you in advance.

ANSWER: Hi Cathy

The fact that both pigs seem underweight is slightly odd.

Teeth problems for both seem unlikely unless they are siblings and from a family that have had teeth problems themselves.

The most likely problem is a digestive disorder sometimes brought on by the presence of a parasite in the gut. I had a male that had to be treated for this and he drank a lot.

I must stress, I am speculating somewhat as I cant see the patients, but I certainly would consult a vet to get a correct diagnosis as some kind of treatment will probably be neccesary.

Andy

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

QUESTION: Thanks, Andy.    I just wanted to mention that I have only had them 6 days now and I believe the previous owner fed them nothing but pellets.  Not the fresh fruits/veggies/hay that they need.   I'm wondering if I should give it a little time before taking them to the vet to see if they start to fill out.  However, with long hair -- it is really hard to determine if they are gaining weight.   Perhaps it is best to go ahead and schedule an appt, but they are extremely stressed out over new things.  I don't want to traumatize them anymore.      Thanks again.

Answer
Hi Cathy

I understand pigs dont like going to vet and it isnt idea to take them only a week into arriving at their new home.

What you can do is weight them each day and they should gain a little weight with the veggies you are giving them. They might be just small pigs.

Andy