Weight loss is very common in guinea pigs and is not a cause for panic. But when you notice that your guinea pig is losing weight, you must closely monitor the situation to make sure everything is going right. Naturally, this means that you should weigh your pig regularly (twice a week is recommended) and look for significant changes in weight.
How much is a “significant” change in weight?
A guinea pig’s weight will normally vary by a few grams each time you weigh it. This is due to hydration, food (or lack thereof), etc. Therefore a difference of up to 35 grams (1.2 oz) per week should not be of much concern. However, if the weight loss is above this level, you should definitely pay attention. A drop of more than 3 ounces (85 grams) almost certainly means an emergency and you should go to the vet immediately.
What to do if you notice weight loss.
If you notice a significant weight loss of more than 2 ounces, you should check to see if your pig is eating and drinking properly. Most of the time, inadequate nutrition is the culprit. Don’t be fooled by empty food bowls, as guinea pigs sometimes steal their food instead of eating it. So even though all the food may have disappeared, the pig may not have eaten it all.
If you find that your pig won’t eat properly, you can quickly try changing its diet. Buy a different brand of guinea pig food, spice up the menu with different fruits, vegetables, etc. If this still doesn’t work, there is a problem and you need to see a vet. Until you see one, you should make sure the pig is fed decently, even if it means force-feeding it. Force feeding should be done very carefully with the help of a clean syringe.
What is the average weight of a guinea pig?
Sometimes, you may notice that your pig loses weight within a safe range but continues to lose weight week by week. Such continued damage is fine as long as the cavity is gradually becoming very mild. Obviously, every guinea pig is different and has its own natural weight, but if your pig is an adult female, it should normally weigh no less than 1.5 pounds (24 ounces) and, if a male, about Weight should not be less than 2 lbs. (32 oz). The only exception to this rule is if your piglet is of an unusually small frame.
potential disease
Many diseases can cause your guinea pig to lose weight rapidly. The most common of these are malnutrition and scurvy, either of which can be diagnosed by your vet. Sometimes, problems with the pig’s teeth can also cause the pig to hurt while eating, discouraging it from eating anything; It may also contribute to weight loss.
Source by Jake M. Jones
