4072. REYNA A guinea pig stops eating and whines in pain - Gastric distension..

A 4-year-old guinea pig does not eat. What are the causes?

1. Dental malocclusion. Teeth overgrown, molar spurs. Can't chew properly. Needs burring of teeth.

2. Ileus - gastrointestinal stasis - distended stomach, gut not moving..
3. Uroliths - urinary tract infection
4. Respiratory infection

Day 2 of inpatient treatment

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2:08 - 3:00  not eating, whines as she feels the pain of a severe stomach distension with gas
                    35deg C (hypothermia). Normal temperature is 38 deg C
3:24 - 3: 36  abdominal palpation by vet

Blog:

https://2010vets.blogspot.com/2019/02/3432-guinea-pig-has-bladder-stone-and.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIuR579uBIg

How can I help my constipated guinea pig?

Kay Dudman, Caring for guinea pigs for over twenty years

Answered May 18, 2018

It is very unlikely that a guinea pig is constipated given their diet. A lack of production of faecal pellets is usually as a result of another problem, for example dental malocclusion causing limited food intake, or gastrointestinal stasis (where the gut action - peristalsis - slows or stops). A guinea pig not producing faecal pellets needs to be seen urgently by a veterinary surgeon familiar with treating guinea pigs. Dental issues may need to be resolved by trimming the teeth with a high-speed burr. Gastrointestinal stasis would need to be investigated to ensure there is no blockage; metoclopramide may be administered orally or by injection to stimulate the gut (providing there is no obstruction).

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A 9-MONTH-OLD G.P, WITH LESS SEVERELY DISTENDED STOMACH