We had our guinea pig for...

Question
We had our guinea pig for two days when we noticed his left eye was swelling shut.  We took him back to the pet store and they took him to the vet. The pet store said the vet indicated that the guinea pig had alleriges and not to use air freshners or carpet freshners, and to only use the Carefresh bedding and change twice during the week.  We were using Aspen bedding.

When we picked him up tonight at the pet store, his left eye was fine.  His right eye was swollen and he had lost the hair around his eye.  I have to put NeoPoly on it twice daily.

Is it common for these type of allergies?  If so, is there an alternative to the CareFresh. Carefresh can be so expensive, and we have a really large cage.  

Answer
Michelle -

Since I've never seen your animal, I'm going to give you the best advice I can, but you're welcome to take it or leave it.  :)  I'm going to suggest that you get a second opinion on this one.  Find a reputable vet (you can find information on how to locate one at www.guinealynx.info) and have him checked out on your own.  

To be honest, I'm not sure I would trust what the pet store is telling you for the simple reason that while he was in their care, his symptoms changed.  Obviously there is something going on.  Perhaps it is just allergies (guinea pigs are notorious for them, and yes, Carefresh is excellent for that, although it can cause sneezing.)  But I would still seek a second, independent opinion.

Hope this is helpful.  If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact me again.  Good luck!

Lorena