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Why is my guinea pig's hind leg swollen and she's limping? Scurvy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Guinea Pig | Female | unspayed | 5 months and 2 days old

My 4 month old guinea pig has a swollen hind leg/foot and a little discolored. It seems its the joint that is swollen. She is dragging it when walking. I have seen her scratch with it so it doesnt appear to be broken. I am able to manipulate the leg without her making noise, Wondering if it could be scurvy?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Chloe and including photos. A trauma (fracture, dislocation) would still be primary concerns and a veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Even though using the leg to scratch, this does not rule out a fracture, as could be the metatarsals and still allow the upper leg to move. A warm compress can be applied for several minutes to see if that improves the swelling. Scurvy typically affects older animals and multiple joints. Good luck.

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