popcorning

Question
QUESTION: I purchased a new guinea pig 4 days ago and I,ve been noticing what seems to me as her wanting to itch something. But from what Ive read she is popcorning, but I'm not sure. It looks like she can't get to something itches so she freaking out about it. Is this what they do when they are popcorning?
ANSWER: Hi Matt

Popcorning is where a pig will be walking normally and then jump/twist in the air. It sounds like something might be bothering your pig such as mites. Does her coat look red/scaly or full of dandruff or is her coat greasy at all? Let me know and I will advise further.

andy

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

QUESTION: No her coat seems ok. But if it is mites how can I treat them? our right though something is bothering her.

Answer
Hi again Matt

Mites are typically treated with a course of ivermectin which is administered by the vet. Initially you can try bathing your pig in antibacterial shampoo and see if that helps.

If any of the symptoms I describe above appear then you need to consider mites as a real possibility.

Andy