constipation or something else

Question
My guinea pig was having trouble going to the bathroom. we thought he was constipated but when I checked his bottom he seemed to have a blockage (poop).  I used a little mineral oil and a qtip and scooped around the edge and got it out.  He seemds to be going to the bathroom ok (round pellets) now but I have had to clean his bottom a couple of times.  the fesces I have had to clean out has had a strong odor.  He is 4 years old and has had no health problems up until now.  He is active ,has a good appetite and been very talkative.  This seems to be his only problem.  Any suggestions.

Answer
Judi --

Well, your guinea pig is suffering from an impacted rectum.  To be honest, no one is really sure what causes them, but you did the exact right thing to fix it.  What you need to do now is check pretty frequently, because once it has happened once, it will happen again and again.  Also, you might try adding extra lettuce or timothy hay (fiber) to his diet.  It might reduce the frequency of the problem.

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

Lorena