Bladder Infections in Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are susceptible to getting urinary tract infections for several different reasons. It is important as the owner to watch for signs of a urinary tract infection so you can take the guinea pig to the veterinarian to be diagnosed and treated.

  1. Symptoms

    • The first sign of a urinary tract infection in your guinea pig is blood in the urine, which you'll notice as you clean out the cage. Another indication is that your guinea pig will make noises, such as squeaking, as if in pain while urinating. If you notice either of these, take your guinea pig to the vet.

    Causes

    • Guinea pigs are prone to urinary tract infections because their bodies are so close to the ground. This makes them susceptible to picking up bacteria from wet bedding or droppings. Bacteria is the main reason a guinea pig will get a urinary tract infection, making it important to keep the cage and guinea pig as dry as possible.

    Diagnosis

    • Your veterinarian will take a number of measures to diagnose your guinea pig. These include palpating the guinea pig's lower abdomen, taking x-rays and collecting urine for testing.

    Treatment

    • Antibiotics like Bactrim are usually prescribed for two or more weeks. Plain, unsweetened, diluted cranberry juice can also be offered to your guinea pig to help alleviate recurring urinary tract infections.

    Prevention

    • Changing cage bedding and keeping it dry is important in keeping the guinea pig safe from urinary tract infections. Keeping hairs on the guinea pig's rear end trimmed may help as well. Once a guinea pig has had a urinary tract infection he is more susceptible to getting another.