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My guinea pig is sick and not eating. How to get affordable vet care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

My guinea pig has crusty eyes, fluffier fur, and he’s barely drinking and eating. He isn’t running away from me when I go to touch him which is odd. I think he has a cold, is this correct? I’ve been sitting him on my lap and giving him water through an infant syringe trying to keep him hydrated. What else can I do without spending a lot of money? (My mom raises three kids on her own without any financial assistance and only makes $42k a year)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 15th, 2019

That this point in time, he has to see a vet. He sounds very sick, and this cannot be treated at home. I would be afraid this could be deadly without veterinary care. If paying for a vet is an issue, you can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/ http://www.dogheirs.com/resources-affordable-veterinary-care/ I hope this helps.

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