Hair colour change and odor

Question
One of our guinea pigs (male) has become noticeably thinner, his
hair used to be clean-looking and now looks dirty even after a
bath, also I've noticed an unpleasant (almost metallic) smell in his
cage.
Any ideas what could be causing this?

Answer
Hi Denyse,

Only a vet can really advise you of why your piggie has changed so much. Weight loss indicates illness, especially when the loss is visibly evident. The dirty coat and smell I can't say anything about, simply because I don't know just based on those descriptions.

Your vet really is the best person to discuss this with. Make an appointment as soon as possible, as piggies don't lose weight without reason. She may be hiding an illness, and her only symptoms may be the ones you have listed. A vet check ASAP will ensure that you catch the illness before it progresses any further.

I'm sorry I was unable to help you further. You could try looking through Guinea Lynx - www.guinealynx.info - for more information. My best guess would be a skin problem, but without being able to see her it really is impossible to say.

Best Wishes,

- Laura
www.cavy-care.com