If your guinea pig is acting strange, such as not eating or drinking, you may think they’ve suffered an injury. Guinea pigs tend to hide these injuries so if you suspect this is the case, take them straight away to the vet for further evaluation and treatment.
Guinea pigs in pain often slow down, alter their posture and move stiffly. Furthermore, they may alter their pee and poo habits accordingly.
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1. Stress
Guinea pigs are prey animals and may feel stressed when they move into a new home. It takes them some time to adjust, so initially they may not eat as much.
They require time to become comfortable in their environment and learn where they can hide and hunt for food. This is normal, as they need to feel secure just like we do in our homes.
Guinea pigs sometimes experience chronic or long-term stress, leading them to feel depressed and lose their appetite. This is an issue that can arise due to changes in environment, illness, or the loss of a loved one.
If your guinea pig is acting strangely and won’t eat or drink, it’s time to book an appointment with a vet. They can run tests to pinpoint the source of their issue and give medications if needed. In the meantime, make sure they have fresh hay and water available for drinking.
2. Digestion
Digestion is the process of breaking food into smaller and smaller particles so it can be easily absorbed in to your digestive tract. It involves several components such as the mouth, tongue and teeth; stomach and intestines; all working together in harmony for this delicate task.
Guinnea pig’s digestive system is highly sensitive, and when they go long periods without eating, their bodies become dehydrated and vulnerable to health issues. That is why it is imperative that you take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible if they have not eaten for 12 hours or more.
Normally, healthy guinea pigs will eat hay all day, along with a cup of vegetables, pellets and occasionally treats. Unfortunately, if your pet stops eating altogether it can affect their digestion and cause them to gain weight rapidly.
3. Dehydration
Guinea pigs require regular access to water, as if not drinking they could become dehydrated. Therefore, it’s essential that their owners provide them with multiple water bottles at all times so that they can replenish their bodily fluids.
Furthermore, guinea pigs should be given fresh vegetables and fruit daily as these foods are fortified with vitamin C – essential for their wellbeing.
Many pelleted guinea pig diets are fortified with vitamin C, yet they may not always provide enough of this vital nutrient. To make sure your pet gets all of their nutritional needs met, offer them hay and fresh veggies in addition to pellets as these sources contain more Vitamin C than their diet alone.
When your guinea pig won’t eat or drink, it is critical to get them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Without prompt care, serious complications could arise which require immediate expert attention; heat stress in particular is a serious medical emergency for these pets.
4. Illness
Your guinea pig’s illness that is preventing them from eating, drinking or moving could range anywhere from a minor dental issue to more serious conditions such as liver and kidney failure. No matter the cause, immediate attention must be given.
Infections of the gastrointestinal tract are another common issue that may cause your guinea pig to refuse eating, poop or appear lethargic. These infections can be caused by various bacteria such as those found in unwashed feed, greens or water and require aggressive antibiotic therapy for treatment.
Guinea pigs may get infections from fleas, lice or mites. These parasites cause itching and may lead to secondary bacterial skin infections.
In addition to itching, a guinea pig in pain will often make louder and longer-lasting squeaks than their usual wheek. They may try to hide their discomfort by limping, but if you observe them dragging their legs or not putting them down then something is amiss.
