Question about a cut ASAP

Question
Good afternoon. I have a male guinea pig who is about 5 months old. I noticed blood inside his cage and checked for a wound. I found that a cut on the bottom of his right back foot. It wasn't deep and looks light pink. I was wondering if there was a way I can clean it or if I have to take him to a vet? I am very concerned for him. Please get back to me ASAP. Thank you and have a nice day.

Regards,
Nicole

Answer
Hi Nicole,

    I am terribly sorry for the delay with this response.  Cuts on the foot of a guinea pig are quite common, but so is a condition called bumblefoot, or pododermatitis.  It sounds as if your guinea pig is suffering from a minor cut, but here is a site with pictures and a description of pododermatitis so you may be able to diagnose your guinea pig.  If bumblefoot is indeed the problem, a veterinarian must be consulted immediately.

http://www.guinealynx.info/pododermatitis.html

    If bumblefoot is not the cause and the wound is not especially deep, you may be able to clean it out and bandage it with VetWrap on your own.  However, I always suggest seeing a veterinarian who is experienced in the area of guinea pigs just in case he or she may feel that specific antibiotics need to be prescribed.  Also, if there is any sign of infection, a vet must be consulted immediately.

    Thank you for your question, I hope I have been of some help to you.  If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.  Good luck with your guinea pig (=

                                                - Nicole