About Guinea Pig Hair Care Products

Like most small pets, guinea pigs are conscious of the need to self-groom on a daily basis. However, owners can assist in the process by brushing the pet daily to help remove shedding hair, which is especially helpful for long-haired guinea pigs. Luckily, a myriad of products are being sold in pet stores to help keep a guinea pig's coat shiny and healthy.

  1. Types

    • Pet stores offer a variety of products designed to help aid in the grooming process of guinea pigs. For example, both soft and stiff brushes for small mammals can be used to remove excess hair and keep the coat shiny. Grooming scissors and combs can help remove soiled or tangled hair clumps, and dusting powders are available for bathing purposes (they are sprinkled on and then brushed out). Veterinarians can prescribe medicated shampoos for guinea pigs with various skin irritations.

    Benefits

    • According to West Coast Pet Supply, regular brushing and combing will help remove molting hairs, dirt, food or bedding material that has become stuck in the guinea pig's coat. Long-haired guinea pigs run the risk of matted hair or hair that has become soaked with urine or caked with feces. Brushing is also a good opportunity to check the animal for any signs of mite infestation, dry skin, or lumps on or under the skin.

    Warning

    • While most guinea pigs enjoy being brushed by their owners, not many like being bathed. If the guinea pig is particularly stressed during the bathing process, it can become more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, according to the Guinea Pig Compendium website. Some guinea pigs can have a reaction to the oils used in shampoo products if they are bathed too frequently, which can lead to dry or irritated skin.

    Expert Insight

    • The Guinea Lynx website cautions guinea pig owners to look for the signs of a mange mite infestation any time they are grooming the animal's hair. Symptoms include thinning and/or patchy loss of hair, flakiness of the skin that may resemble dandruff, and eventually, open sores. Once a veterinarian has diagnosed a case of mange mites, treatment might include topical creams for the areas of open sores or a dose of flea and tick medication, which is usually placed on the skin on the animal's back once the hair has been separated.

    Considerations

    • Most guinea pigs appreciate time spent out of their cage with their owners, and brushing can be a relaxing experience for both parties involved. Handling the guinea pig provides another way for pet and owner to form a bond, and most guinea pigs seem to enjoy the attention to their coats.