Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My guinea pig sheds a lot and has dandruff. Is it mites or normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

My guinea pig was recently very sick and was losing all his hair due to mites. Now he is much better and his hair has grown back, but he is shedding a lot. At least a handful every day. Is it normal for guinea pigs to shed that much or could it be mange mites? I also noticed while rubbing him that he has white flakes of Dandruff, is there a simple way to get rid of the dandruff such as aloe? Coconut oil? (He is a American shorthaired guinea pig)

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on July 18th, 2018

I would be very suspicious that your guinea pig may be reinfected with mites. However they are also very susceptible to ring worm which causes hair loss as well. I would make sure that you are supplementing with Vitamin C and then I would encourage you to have a follow up appointment with your veterinarian. Make sure to sterilize his cage well multiple times during treatments and make sure he does not have contact with other animals. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored