Gorgeous Guineas - Identifying Skin Problems

Identifying Skin Problems In Guinea Pigs

Skin problems in guineas are often mis-diagnosed by Vets. Fungal skin conditions are often treated as if they were caused by Mites, despite the skin condition being presented. Guineas are then put through the pain (and expense!) of two or three Ivomec injections, the problem isn't cured and your guinea is still in a lot of pain and discomfort.

Skin problems frequently occur where a guinea is stressed or has a depressed immune system. Often you will find that the following types of guineas are affected: pregnant sows, sows who have recently given birth, babies, oldies, guineas who have been ill, guineas who have been stressed by a move (a change of home for example).

Guineas often suffer from both Fungal and Parasitic skin problems as the same time. As soon as you see any signs of skin problems, don't hang about - get a diagnosis from your Vet and start treating them as soon as possible.

*** SKIN PROBLEMS CAN KILL GUINEAS IF THEY ARE LEFT UNTREATED ***

Humidity In The UK

Guinea pigs have very sensitive skins (hence their use in testing cosmetics and skincare products), and are prone to both Fungal and Parasitic skin problems. Fungal skin infection is a particular problem in the UK. Guinea pigs are originally from Peru where the climate is warm and dry. Here, there is always moisture in the air - cold and damp in the winter, and hot and humid in the summer.

Fungal Infections vs Parasitic Infestations

Here are some pointers to help you to decide if your guinea has a Fungal or Parasitic skin problem. Once you have figured out which one it is, please visit our Melts page for more information about how you can help your guinea's skin.

For more information on Fungal and Parasitic problems, click on the links below:

Fungal Infections

Parasitic Infestations

Typical Symptoms of Fungal Infections	Typical Symptoms of Parasitic Infestation
Very greasy hair and / or skin that is red (rather than a healthy pink colour) and often it will feel hot to the touch.	Thinning hair with bald areas only in the area of infestation.
Heavy, gritty scurf (like dandruff). There may be white tide marks on the ears and / or jagged edges.	Hair shafts broken off half way down to the root around the area of infestation.
Hair falls out with a light tug, and the end of the hair will be coated with scurf.	Hair will not come out when lightly tugged.
Intense scratching, biting and irate squeaking. Nerves are often affected and if you touch them around the hip area they will often turn round and try and bite you.	A little bump / scab on the skin surface - this is the tiny mite just below the skin.
If the infection is bad, there may be thick crusty patches of skin, extensive hair loss, considerable scratch lesions, and the guinea may even be fitting.	Intense scratching / irritation.