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My guinea pig is losing a lot of hair. Is this normal or a concern?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Guinea Pig | Female

Hii i have a question i have a guinea pig and i noticed that she is losing a lot ut a lot of hair and i want to know if that is normal.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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.

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 3rd, 2018

    Sorry to hear Pashmak is having some hair loss. Skin infections (bacterial or fungal), external parasites (mites or lice), over grooming due to pain or discomfort and hormone imbalances are common occurrences in guinea pigs. If the skin appears healthy in the area of hair loss (no flakiness or scabs) and Pashmak does not seem painful when handled in that area, I would be concerned about hormonal problems. Adrenal diseases that increase the secretion of cortisol (just like when we are stressed) can cause the hair to loosen and fall out. These lesions are usually difficult to palpate, even with a skilled veterinarian, and diagnostics testing might be needed to confirm. The veterinarian should easily be able to rule in/rule out skin infections or external parasites. Good luck.

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