Baby piggy smells of urine

Question
My sow recently had 3 babies (2 weeks ago). All seems to be going well except one of the babies is smaller than the other two and it's bottom end smells strongly of urine and is always wet. The cage is spotless and the other two do not smell and are putting on weight well. I have been bathing it in warm water twice a day. I really am worried about it as the smell is very strong and she is definitely not putting on as much weight as the others. Any suggestions please. Thanks Joy

Answer
Joy,

It sounds like your baby may have diabetes or a UTI (urinary tract infection). I'm think it is diabetes due to the continual wet bottom, and not putting on weight. Here are some signs of diabetes,

The most common symptoms noticed by guinea pig owners are:

rapid formation of cataracts

chronic wet bottom

frequent urinary tract infections (UTI)

Other symptoms may include:

excessive thirst

excessive urination

weight loss in spite of healthy appetite

Since she is showing two of these signs you need to get her checked out by a vet. Now it is treatable and Guinea Pigs with diabetes live happy, healthy normal lives. You are going to need an experienced vet who knows a lot about Guinea Pigs to get the right diagnoses. There are two types of diabetes in Guinea Pigs. Piggies with Type 1, insulin dependent diabetes must be treated with insulin injections.  Many owners are able to successfully give their guinea pig insulin shots, and the piggie lives a normal, healthy life as a result. Many guinea pigs with Type 2, non-insulin dependent diabetes respond very well to oral medication.  In Canada, the drug is called glyburide; in the US, it's called glipizide. These piggies can also be treated with insulin.

So best advise would be to get her to an experienced vet who knows all about Guinea Pigs and have her checked out for UTI and Diabetes.

I hope this helps,
   Take care now,
       Jules