Bruises?

Question
QUESTION: Hello, when I went to check on our new female guinea pig, I saw that it had a purple blotch around it's mouth I think it's around the top left side. Is this a bruise or is it something else? How do I cure it and does it hurt the pig a lot?


Thanks.
ANSWER: Paul,

I am completely unsure of what would the purple blotch could be for sure. It could be a bruise or she isn't getting enough blood to that area or even lack of oxygen.

Your safest bet would be to take her down the the vet and have it checked out right away. As this is very uncommon in Guinea Pigs and should be checked out.

I hope this helps some and that she is fine.
         Take care now,
         Jules

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

QUESTION: Sorry for the bad description but it is purple and is swollen. I think it's a bruise or something that is swollen from the lip and from what I read it causes damage to the teeth later on. Is it somehow possible to prevent this without having to go to the vet?  

Answer
Paul,

Because it is a sore or something on the lip it will need to be treated by the vet. It is a serious thing as it can damage her teeth, prevent her from eating and so being her teeth can grow to be to long and in the end she could starve to death because of it.

When it comes to something as serious as this it is always best to see the vet. Home treatment of something like this is not an option. Though if you talk to your vet and get to know your vet, they are more likely to help you out as they understand where your coming from and such.

I hope this helps,
         Take care now,  
         Jules