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My guinea pig has a bald spot with scabs. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

My guinea pig has a patch of fur missing on the right side of his lower back. It sometimes has little scabs on it but it mainly just feels like skin. What could be the cause, and should I get him checked out?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on June 17th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Thor. Hair loss can be due to self grooming, but also fungal or bacterial dermatitis, mites, and other metabolic problems. If seems to be bothering Thor or increases in size, a veterinary visit is recommended. Do not apply anything topical as guinea pigs very good at self grooming and will remove it. Good luck.

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    Answered By Susan England-Foster

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 3rd, 2017

    IF Sofia is losing hair I would recommend taking her to a vet for a skin scrape. This is when the vet will be able to determine if skin mites are present. Some types of skin mite are contagious. the skin could also be relate to infection or even fungal disease. i hope that helps

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 19th, 2017

    Hello, & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Seeing a lesion like this always concerns me that this might be mange mites, or even ringworm. I am afraid the best thing to do is have your veterinarian examine the skin. A small sample will be taken & looked at under a microscope. Depending on what is seen, the appropriate medication will be started to get Rocket's skin looking great. Hope this helps. Take care.

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