Guinea pig holding head to side

Question
Lorena,

My one guinea pig has started to hold her head to one side, and I'm quite worried - I will take her to the vet asap - it almost seems like she has something in her ear but I cannot see anything...

Any idea of what this could be?

thanks,
Ian

Answer
Ian --

Well, there are two things that are usually defined by tilting the head, and neither of them are very threatening.  First, cloudy eyes.  This occurs when a guinea pig has an injury of some sort to the eye and requires treatment.

Second, and more likely, is an ear infection.  She will hold her head like this because she is off balance and it actually may feel normal to her.

I would, indeed, take this animal to the vet for treatment.

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

Lorena