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How do guinea pigs get mites and what's the best way to prevent them?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Guinea Pig | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 6 days old

My guinea pig does not have mites at all. But for his health and safety I was wondering how guinea pigs get mice so I can prevent him from getting them. I spot clean his cage every day a few times a day, change the bedding every week. I refill his hay container every few days.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 22nd, 2018

Most of the time mites get brought in with the food (often commercial guinea pig food), hay, bedding and other guinea pigs. So if you keep Sebastians cage clean, feed good quality hay, lots of greens, and fresh commercial pellets (check the expiration or manufacturing date on the box) then there is little danger for mites showing up and infecting your cavvie. You are doing well by being so diligent!

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