My guinea pigs general health

Question
Hi,
I'm curious as to the general health of my guinea pig. Roby(my guinea pig) is 5 years old and he seems to be getting sickness after sickness. He was recently constipated and my vet told me to help him by squeezing the feces out of his rectum. Since then Roby's constipation has been better but occasionally I have to help him out. However, recently my guinea pig's teeth seem overgrown but I'm taking him to the vet for some help. All of his vital signs seem well: his fur is shiny and his eyes sparkle but my question is... Am I loosing him? I know he is older but he still acts young. It's just that I don't want to loose him without notice. Even if you don't know the answer at least give me an educated guess I love my guinea pig and I'd really like to know.
Thank-you

Answer
Hi Ian

Five years old is quite old for a piggy but by no means should we assume that Roby is on his way out.

The constipation doesnt surprise me as anal impaction (the correct name for this particular problem) does occur in adult males.

If the teeth have only just become longer than they should be, this indicates that he needs more foods like hay or veggies to work his teeth, but either way, the vet will be able to trim them to prevent a problem with his eating.

Therefore my educated advice is to continue to help his with his poop, get his teeth treated, give Roby lots of hay to eat, monitor his teeth. You may find that Roby will live for another 3 years. Based on what you have told me I dont think you are losing him, just that he has 2 unrelated problems. You have dealt with the first one, now you just need to deal with the second.

Please keep me informed as to Roby's appointment for his teeth, and remember I am always here to help.

Andy