spluttery piggy

Question
i have two 6mnth old guinea pigs both female. they get fresh water hay and lettuce on a daily basis. however the bigger of the two has seemed to develop a bit o f a slutter as if she has maybe drank too much water and is kinda coughing. thats how it sounds. it happens a couple of times a day i am now worried as i dont no whether to take her to the vet. it is not particularly warm in my fiances house and was wondering if maybe i should keep them in a warmer room? is this maybe the cause of the cough and what is the best solution.?

Answer
It is most likely the start of an upper respiratory infection. She probably has a lot drainage in her lungs and is very congested. Try giving her 1/4 tsp Robutussin DM once a day for any congestion, and put a dab of vicks vapor rub on her nose up to 4 times a day. At later stages they do need antibiotics, and if possible it is best to have her seen by a vet. You should keep her in a warmer room, drafts and changes in tempurature usually start this condition and make them prone to URI's. There is also more information on my website http://woopets.bravehost.com . Let me know if you have any more questions.
Brittany