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What causes a guinea pig's watery, red eye? How can I treat it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

Hello! I have just noticed that my guinea pig seems to have a watery eye and it seems to be red around it, just wondering if you could tell me what it is, what the cause is and how to treat it? Thank you

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2020

Poor Pip, it looks like she has developed conjunctivitis. It is inflammation of the eye tissue that can be caused by infection or trauma (like getting bedding in the eye). There is a chance there may be damage to the surface of the eye which could cause an ulcer, usually a vet will put dye in the eye to check for this. Ideally I would take her to a vet to have this checked, but it may be more difficult with the virus. I would ring your normal vet and see what they say about an appointment. You will need an eye drop to treat the eye a d your vet should be able to prescribe this to you based on the symptoms you describe, they may want to see it though. Make sure Pip is still eating well as pain can put GPs off food easily.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Claudia Fioravanti

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 5th, 2017

    It's best to have him checked over to see wether it is just an eye infection or if he is suffering with an eye ulcer (scratch on the eye surface). The second scenario needs close monitoring as the ulcer can become perforate and he could end losing his sight.

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