mites & apples

Question
Hey Laura,
I have a few questions.
First of all can guinea Pigs get mites from the grass?  Does that mean that I cant put guinea pig on the grass any more?  My friend is terribly sad because her guinea pig died from mites.  :(  The vet said it was from the grass.  Is it true?

Also can guinea pigs eat apple sauce?  I mean its just mashed apples.

Tahnk you for your time.

Answer
Hi Cristie,

There are different types of mites which come as a result of different things. The most common mite is one which is always on guinea pigs. When a guinea gets stressed, is ill or has been very scared recently, the stress can bring the mites out of dormancy. Many cases of mites are a result of stress. There are some cases where the mites have come from the hay. Guineas need hay, so just learn all the symptoms of mites so you can catch a problem early in necessary. Mites are microscopic so cannot be seen with the naked eye, so it is pointless trying to spot any hidden in hay/grass.

Similarly with the grass, it's not a problem to put your piggy on the grass. Just know the symptoms of mites and carry on as normal - there's no point limiting your piggy's life just in case you end up with mites.

Your friends piggy probably died from mites because she didn't recognise the symptoms and get them treated soon enough. Or the guinea didn't show many symptoms until it was too late to treat (piggies are notorious for hiding their illnesses).
Left untreated, mites can cause seizures, open wounds (as a result of severe scratching) and intense irritation. Scratching daily is normal; it's when they scratch a lot for longer periods of time that you begin to keep a closer watch. Any scabs/sores, hair loss, squealing when touched/held are the first signs that you need ot get your piggy to the vets.

Apple sauce isn't advisable. Apples are very acidic, watery and sugary, so aren't the best food for piggies in it's original form. When mashed the juices make the apple even more acidic. Too much acid can cause sores on the mouth; too much sugar can cause diabetes; too much water can cause diarrhea. So limit the fruits all around and stick to more vegetables.

Best Wishes,

- Laura