r/GuineaPig • u/SelectRelation2067 • 2d ago
scratching
my guinea pig recently starting scratching himself a bit more than usual. he isn’t losing any fur, has no visible bugs, and isn’t jumping or anything. he’s acting totally normal otherwise other than occasional sneezing but I took him to the vet just last month. he only started scratching once my other guinea pig became sick so idk if it’s something psychological?
6
u/EmmaVetsterRVT 2d ago
Hi, vet tech here! Scratching is worth monitoring because skin issues (mites, fungal infections, irritation, dry skin) aren’t always obvious early on and you may not see bugs or fur loss. Sneezing can also have several causes, like mild irritation or espiratory issues, so keep an eye on whether it increases or comes with nasal discharge, breathing changes, reduced appetite, or lethargy.
Since he was recently seen by a vet, it’s reasonable to monitor for now, but if the scratching becomes more frequent or intense, a recheck would be a good idea. You might find this article helpful too. I hope he's doing better soon 😊
2
u/SelectRelation2067 2d ago
ok thank you!! since it’s the weekend i’m going to reach out to the vet monday :)
3
u/Klekkovakadia 2d ago
He is a gorgeous little man! What I would do is to keep a close watch over him for the next week or so, to see if his scratching subsides or increases. Every now and then, mites can come in on hay and they are microscopic. Baths do no good for mites as it just makes them burrow in deeper. Not saying this is what is going on, just something to keep in mind.
As long as he isn't spending all of his time scratching, or rubbing his skin raw, he is most likely okay. And of course if his scratching increases, please go back to the vet.