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)
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
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.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on January 4th, 2019
Guinea pigs will shed just like other furred animals. Shedding may increase in the Spribg or Summer. Excessive hair loss may be due to nutritional deficiency or infection (bacterial, fungal or parasites). An exam with your veterinarian would be recommended if you are seeing bald patches, red skin or excessive scratching or itching.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 17th, 2017
While there are many possible reasons for hair loss, the most common reason by far is microscopic mange mites. This can be easily treated with medication from your vet. Fungal infections are a close runner-up. Check over this list for the possible causes of hair loss: 1. NATURAL Hair Loss - basically normal shedding. 2. Barbering - chewing the hair either by him or another pig (if you have another one) 3. Parasites: like mange mites 4. Fungal infection 5. Vitamin C deficiency 6. Bacterial infection 7. Low protein diet 8. Age related - like going from a baby to an adult (shedding the baby hair) So, if there is no itching or scratching and no bald spots I would say start with making sure his diet is appropriate and that he is getting a Vitamin C supplement (very important). I recommend Oxbow brand diets and hay. http://www.oxbowanimalhealth.com/products/type/detail?object=1582 http://www.oxbowanimalhealth.com/products/type/detail?object=1530 http://www.oxbowanimalhealth.com/products/type/detail?object=10829 Keep monitoring him and if you notice any itching or bald spots get him to the vet for an exam. I hope this helps. Best wishes!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 4th, 2017
This can be caused from mites, a fungal or bacterial infection or even allergies. I would have your vet take a look at him to determine the cause of the hair loss and start him on the proper meds to help him feel better. I hope this helps and he starts to feel better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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