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Why is my guinea pig's ear dry and crusty? Is it ringworm?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Guinea Pig | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old

Does his ear look dry? I don't know what would be the cause, change in weather? It's been fluctuating between hot and cold lately.. I change the bedding every week, fresh water, pellets hay... Would would be the cause or maybe I just didn't notice before? The picture where his snout is facing toward you is the other ear that does not look dry.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 21st, 2019

Most likely this crusty, dry appearance to the ear is due to ringworm. I suggest you get Sebastian to your vet for an exam so they can confirm and make sure you have the correct medication for treatment. Here is a link to an article about this: ( https://www.petmd.com/exotic/conditions/skin/c_ex_gp_ringworm_infection ) While you are waiting to get him to a vet you can start using a topical antifungal cream like this one: ( https://www.1800petmeds.com/Clotrimazole+Cream-prod10589.html ) Ringworm is contagious to people so please be sure that anyone who handles him washes their hands very well.

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