Polycystic Kidneys

Question
My piggy has been given a life expectancy of 2-3 weeks after discoveng he has polycystic kidneys. He hasnt had a poo in 2 days. He is very very bloated. Is there anything I can do for him? He is only 12 weeks old.  

Answer
Sarah

I am sorry about your guinea pig. Truly is a sad thing.

What I can suggest to you is to provide your guinea pig with the most comfortable last few days. Good water, clean shavings, warm but not too overheated, and even a towel, blanket or stuffed animal to snuggle with. You could even consider putting a heating pad or waterbottle under the cage set on low.

One thing not to do is to introduce anything new or different to your guinea pig(Such as changing the surroundings of the cage or introducing exotic fruits). This could cause stress to your guinea pig. Keep him in as much peace and quiet and comfort as possible.

Your guinea pig may be getting bloated because he needs more Fiber in his diet to help ease and decrease the bloating. What's happening is a gastrointestinal slowdown, one cause could be the kidneys beginning to shut down.

I suggest incorporating high levels of indigestable fibers, in the form of free-choice grass hay.

Such as Timothy hay.

I hope this has answered your questions and will help.

Best Wishes

Sorry for the sad news