Treatments for Interstitial Cystitis in Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are susceptible to the bladder condition known as interstitial cystitis. Reoccurring pain, pressure and discomfort in the pelvic region is common for guinea pigs suffering from this condition. When no bladder stones or infection is found in the bladder, but pain persists, a veterinarian may diagnose the guinea pig with interstitial cystitis, according to Guinea Lynx, an online medical care guide for rodent pets. Treatments for this condition include managing the guinea pig's diet, increasing the amount of water consumed and using pain medications.

  1. Using Diet to Control Interstitial Cystitis

    • Feeding the guinea pig a high quality diet is thought to help prevent interstitial cystitis. Calculating the amount of calcium and phosphorus the guinea pig is eating is essential in treating and controlling a reoccurrence of interstitial cystitis.

      Avoid feeding guinea pigs the reproductive parts of plants including the seeds or roots.
      Containing high concentrations of phosphorous, these plant parts may lead to the embedding of phosphate crystals on the walls of the bladder causing irritation and pain. Foods to avoid containing seeds or roots often eaten by guinea pigs include grapes, bananas, apples and carrots. Treat mixes for guinea pigs containing sunflower seeds should also be avoided.

      Aim for a ratio of 2:1 for calcium to phosphorus in treats and dry pellet food for guinea pigs. Feeding alfalfa sprouts, cauliflower, pumpkin and green peppers all weigh in at a low 0.5:1 ratio, making them safe treat choices both low in calcium and phosphorus for guinea pigs.

    Increasing Fluids to Treat Interstitial Cystitis

    • Give the guinea pig fresh water daily. Allow the guinea pig to drink freely from a water bottle whenever desired. Increasing fluids by administering syringes full of water orally can also help hydrate a guinea pig. Ask a veterinarian for guidance in dosage and proper technique. Administered by a veterinarian, subcutaneous injections of fluids twice a week is also an effective way to treat interstitial cystitis in guinea pigs.

    Pain Medications to Treat Interstitial Cystitis

    • Prescribed by a veterinarian, pain medications may be necessary to relieve discomfort caused by interstitial cystitis. Unlike the removal of bladder stones in guinea pigs, the sore bladder walls caused by interstitial cystitis cannot be removed, only relieved. Making the pet comfortable with pain medications, increased hydration and a healthy diet are the available treatment options.