Guinea pig fitting?

Question
My guinea pig has lost weight recently.  She is 4 years old and does often lose condition in the winter and I always bring her inside.  However, this year she has lost weight and appears now to have lost proper function of her back end is having to drag herself along.  Just now though I have witness what looked like a fit or heart attack.  She laid on her side shaking with her heart beating and panting.  Then recovered after about 10 mins.  She is still eating and drinking, but has lost her voice.  Please advise.

Answer
Hi Corrina,

    It sounds as though your guinea pig may be suffering from either an advanced stage of upper respiratory infection (UR) or some other serious illness.  In either case, it is necessary to consult a veterinarian who is experienced in the area of guinea pigs.

    Such a vet will check for fluid in the lungs, check the heart, and perform any necessary cultures needed in order to prescribe appropriate antibiotics.

   Symptoms of URI include labored breathing, loss of appetite, lethargy, and excessive eye discharge.  Do not stop putting vitamin C supplemental droplets in their daily food and water, for this is extremely healthy for guinea pigs and can help them strengthen their immune system.  They are refusing water because it is something guinea pigs do when they are suffering from URI.

   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 pigs, and let me know how things work out.

                                               - Nicole