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My guinea pig has scabs and scratches. Is it an illness or bug?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male | unneutered | 2 lbs

my guinea pig has scabs on his sides and under his elbows, i wasnt sure if it could be from his nails when he scratches or if it could be an illness or a bug? i sadly dont have any pictures, as i am away from them for a few days. i dont have a lot of money for a vet trip and just need to know if it something that is life threatining or isnt as serious as i think it is?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Miranda Sadar, DVM, DACZM

Veterinarian

Published on June 16th, 2018

What a hard situation to try to handle while you are away from Frodo! The reason for the scratching may be any of the things you mentioned - an infection caused by bacteria or fungus, parasites, allergies, or another cause. Until you get home, you can recommend to the person who is watching him for you to make sure there is nothing in the environment that he could be reacting to - pine and cedar shavings can be irritating to the skin, and should be removed if present. Otherwise, it will be supportive care until you get back and can take him in to see a vet and get treatment. His appetite and activity should be monitored closely - getting a digital gram scale (found in the kitchen section on many department stores) is a good idea so he can be weighed daily to make sure he is not losing weight. Make sure his fecal pellets (poops) also continue to be normal in size, shape, and moisture content. If anything changes about any of these parameters, he needs to go to the vet before you get home.

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