Cavy Skin Disease

Guinea pigs are a type of rodent from the genus Cavia. The name cavy refers to domestic guinea pigs, which are a common household pet in some countries and a important meat animal in others. Cavies are small rodents with soft coats and sensitive skin. Some of the most common health ailments affecting cavies are skin diseases, including fungus and parasites. The most common indicator of a skin problem in a cavy is excessive scratching.

  1. Sellnic

    • Sellnic is a type of mite that can infest the skin of guinea pigs to the point where a guinea pig can be killed by the infestation. An infestation by Sellnic mites causes hair loss, scratching, dry skin, open wounds, pain and irritation. Guinea pigs with Sellnic become so irritated by the itching that they refuse to eat, and death occurs as a result of anorexia and dehydration. Sellnic mites cannot be seen by the naked eye. A veterinarian's help will be required for diagnosis.

    Mites

    • Cavy mites are not capable of being seen with the ordinary eye. A microscope is required to confirm their diagnosis. When mites are causing a problem, the back of the guinea pig will exhibit hair loss and a thickening of the skin. Cavies suffering from mites are often quite irritable as a result of the uncomfortable itching. Contacting a vet will be necessary for diagnosis and treatment options for cavy mites.

    Static Lice

    • Static lice are also known as hair lice or hair mites. These are tiny dots on the belly or the back end of the guinea pig that look like brown paint flecks. These parasites are harmless; however, they can destroy the guinea pig's coat. These mites also cause itching and discomfort that can affect the cavy's quality of life. They can be best seen through a microscope, so a veterinarian visit may be needed for an adequate diagnosis of the parasite.

    Running Lice

    • Also known as standard running lice, these are white or yellow bugs that can be seen moving through the coat of the cavy. These lice are host specific, which means they only affect cavies and no other animals or humans are at risk. The treatment process for these lice is extensive, as care has to be taken to prevent the lice from returning. Some veterinarians recommend using a single drop of Advantage or Frontline flea preventative to keep the lice at bay.

    Ringworm

    • Ringworm prevents as a ring of sores, and the cavy's coat will fall out around this sore area. The skin will appear dry and flaky, especially along the face and head of the cavy. Ringworm is not a parasite, but is actually a type of fungus. Ringworm can spread from cavy to cavy and is also capable of affecting other animals and humans. Veterinarian action is recommended for dealing with the ringworm disease properly.