Why Does My Guinea Pig Keep Sneezing
Just like humans, guinea pigs sneeze. Their sneezes sound very high-pitched. If it happens 2 to 4 times a day, then it’s completely normal, and you don’t need to worry as it’s usually the result of hay dust.
But if your piggie does it a lot, then it might be because of some health issue. If that’s the case, then you must be wondering why your guinea pig keeps sneezing.
There are multiple factors such as foreign particles ... like smoke or dust in the nasal passage, or possibly an upper respiratory infection that can lead to sneezing in guinea pigs. If it’s happening a lot, then you might need to plan a trip to the vet for proper treatment.
The respiratory system of guinea pigs is very sensitive and they can fall victim to infection even by a simple change in environment.
If you notice your piggy sneezing a lot, consider looking around for potential reasons causing respiratory infection or an allergic reaction. You’ll also need to look out for other symptoms of illness in your cavy.
Is Guinea Pig Sneezing Bad?
As mentioned, it’s totally normal for a guinea pig to sneeze for 2 to 4 times a day. It usually happens due to hay dust, smoke, or an allergen in the environment.
However, if by chance a respiratory disease is causing your guinea pig to sneeze, then it’s not a good sign and you should pay a visit to the vet.
Why do Guinea Pigs Sneeze?
There are multiple reasons why guinea pigs sneeze. You must keep in mind that these little animals don’t sneeze without any reason, and the most common ones are listed below.
Change in Environment Or Weather
If you have recently moved your guinea pigs from one place to another, then it can also lead your guinea pigs to sneeze a lot. Additionally, dry conditions can also irritate the nasal passage of your cavy, and it starts sneezing more than usual.
Vitamin C Deficiency
Vitamin C is one of the essential acidic materials for guinea pigs, and unfortunately, their bodies don’t produce it naturally. The deficiency of vitamin C can lead to respiratory infection as the immune system of your piggy gets compromised.
Ensure that you feed your cavies with the required amount of vegetables and food to provide them with the necessary vitamin C.
Allergies
An allergic reaction is also one of the most common reasons why guinea pigs sneeze. It can happen due to some ingredient or pollen in their food and dust in the air or bedding. Here are some other potential allergens that you should keep in mind.
- Cleaning products
- Washing detergents
- Room sprays
- Air fresheners
Dental Issues
Dental problems don’t lead to sneezing directly, but they can cause respiratory infection. That’s because the upper teeth of guinea pigs are very close to their nasal passage.
Respiratory Infection
URIs or upper respiratory infections such as pneumonia or cold are the most dangerous issues that also cause guinea pigs to sneeze a lot.
In worst cases, URI can be fatal and you must visit the vet as quickly as possible if you notice your guinea pig is sick and sneezing.
In simple words, sneezing due to dust or allergens isn’t much of a concern. On the other hand, you should not take the respiratory infection for granted because it can be fatal.
What Should You Do if Your Guinea Pig is Sneezing?
If your guinea pig is sneezing because of a respiratory infection, then you must take it to the vet right away. In this situation, your little pet needs medical attention as soon as possible.
However, if there’s no respiratory infection and your guinea pig is still sneezing, you can do the following.
Examine Location
If you keep your piggies indoors, consider allergens in the air that might be making your pets sneeze. Make sure the cage of your piggy is placed in a well-ventilated area.
Change the Bedding
When it comes to allergies and sneezing, the bedding of your guinea pig can be a silent culprit. Oil in the shavings and dust in the hay can cause irritation in your piggy’s nose.
Consider replacing the bedding of your pet with fleece as it can alleviate allergic reactions.
Clean the Cage
Guinea pigs like to live in clean environments. It’s important to clean their cage regularly to prevent the disease-causing bacteria buildup.
Use Good Quality Food
Guinea pigs mostly eat hay, and they need plenty of it to munch on. Always use good quality hay and make sure that it has gone through the process of removing harmful allergens such as fungal spores and parasites.
Keep Your Piggies Dry
It’s important not to keep your guinea pigs on wet grass. Not only do they feel uncomfortable, but it can also cause serious health issues, including respiratory infections.
Do Guinea Pigs Sneeze When Stressed?
Yes, guinea pigs also sneeze more than usual when they’re stressed. That’s because stress directly affects their immune system and makes them vulnerable to upper respiratory infections and allergies.
The following are some of the most common stressors.
- Addition of a new guinea pig
- Getting bullied by other piggies
- Moving from one place to another
- Overcrowding in the cage
- Not enough activity or exercise
How Do I Know if My Guinea Pig Has A Respiratory Infection?
Guinea pigs show multiple signs when they are suffering from respiratory infections. If you notice any of the symptoms listed below, then consider visiting your vet.
- Change in breathing patterns
- Red-eye or green or yellow discharge
- Runny nose
- Lethargy and not participating in activities
- Blood from the nose in the worst conditions
How Do I Know If My Guinea Pig is Cold?
Guinea pigs spend more time burrowing in the hay or the shelter if it’s cold. You might also observe that your guinea pig is curling up on itself or shivering. It usually happens when the surrounding temperature falls below 15 degrees Celsius or 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Guinea pigs stop moving around when they are cold, and they come out of shelter only for food. The cold also slows down the metabolism of these animals, and they spend most time sleeping and drinking less water.
Summary
Guinea pigs are one of the most adorable and fun pets to own, but you must take care of them properly because they can’t tell you directly what they need.
We hope this guide will help you understand when sneezing is normal in guinea pigs and when to act immediately to see your vet and keep your piggies healthy and happy.