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Why did my guinea pig's top teeth fall out? Is it old age or injury?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Guinea Pig | Female | 3 lbs

My guinea pig's 2 top teeth hv fallen out. I give her fresh hay, water, lettuce/veggies and pellets every day. I also give her a vitamin c tablet everyday. I dont know what im doing wrong!! Could this be a sign of old age?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on May 18th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Skittles. Typically this is due to trauma, either getting dropped or cribbing. Cribbing is when the animal chews on the bars of the cage and pull backwards, cracking the teeth. The enamel, which provides strength to the teeth, is thick in the front but thin on the back side. The grabbing the bars and pulling backward,the teeth crack and fall out. The good new, guinea pig teeth grow throughout life and likely with re-appear. Monitor the length of the lower incisors so these don't get too long. If they do, a veterinary visit for grinding is recommended. Offer food cut small, to allow apprehension. Guinea pigs have cheek teeth (premolars and molars) so should still be able to chew food. Good luck.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 21st, 2018

    Those teeth indeed broke off and the lower incisors are too long. The upper incisors should grow out over time as guinea pigs' teeth keep growing their whole life. However I would take Cosmo to a vet who is experienced with the treatment of guinea pigs. Cosmo will need a dental exam as there may be problems also with his cheek teeth, which often are too long or worn unevenly when a problem with the front teeth appears. I suggest you make an appointment with your vet soon.

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