sudden death of guinea pigs

Question
My neighbour was looking after a friend's guinea pig (my neighbour also has a pig) and yesterday she had them in her backyard for a bit of "fresh air".  They were each in their own cages, had fresh water and pellets, but she didn't give them any grass or anything.  They were in the shade.  She does this all the time.  She doesn't spray any pesticides on her lawn.  It wasn't too hot outside, with a nice breeze and she thought they would be fine. She checked on them every 15 mins and after they were out almost an hour, she checked on them and they were both dead.  Of course, she was distressed and called me over (as we have a g.p. too).  We looked around and noticed that the person in the house behind them was spray painting something and we could smell the fumes.  Do you think this could have caused the pigs to die?  She feels horrible and of course will have to explain this to her friend who had entrusted her to watch her piggie while they were away on vacation!  Do you think it was the paint fumes?  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Marnie,

Sorry for taking so long to get back to you. I have had some internet problems and only now have been able to log on to check my mail and questions!

Many paint fumes are toxic to piggies, and it appears to be the only explanation in this case. I would guess that the paint fumes were breathed in by the piggies and it affected them in such a devastating way. I doubt they were each hiding illness as they were kept separate, but it's always a small possiblity.

I'm sorry I can't be of any more help, and I'm sorry your neighbour has to deal with the loss of both pigs.

Best Wishes,

- Laura
www.cavy-care.com