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Behaviour Change and Weight Loss

chocolatemilkshakeguineas

chocolatemilkshakeguineas

New Born Pup
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My guinea pig Chocolate (almost 6 y/o) overcome mites a month ago and from that she had lost quite a bit of weight leaving her slightly bonier than usual. Overtime when she grew her hair back from the mites infestation, She started to look healthier and gaining more weight. Today I was feeding her and I pet her back and I was shocked at how bony she was. I don’t know why she has gotten so skinny because she is always down the ramp eating with her friend; who is a normal weight. I also see her drinking from her bowl and water bottle so I’m not sure what has happened. I have also noticed Chocolate being unusually friendly and intimate since she is normally timid around people and my dog but she has become less caring of me coming close to her, same with my dog. I am planning on taking her to the vet soon but before that, does anyone know why this is happening?
 
Unfortunately there is no way we can even begin to speculate as to what could be wrong. You must have her seen by a vet to investigate any behavioural changes or weight loss.

Hope you can get an appointment soon. Hope you get some answers
 
As above, unfortunately it is impossible for us to say why Chocolate is losing weight. It could be anything from dental issues to kidney issues to something more sinister. Good that you are scheduling a vet check. All the best x
 
Good luck at the vets tomorrow. Older piggies lose muscle as they age so hopefully it’s just a sign of normal ageing. 🤞
 
My first thought was loss of muscle tone because of age…I feel that in my old girl Bertha too. I hope that Chocolate’s weight loss is just a normal part of aging. Hoping for the best for you at the Vet’s!
 
As she has lost what seems like a large amount of weight (it takes longer to gain than lose the weight), I’d suggest you syringe feed her to help her maintain or gain. Some members give their piggies oats to help with weight gain. All the best at the vets tomorrow.
 
Siikibam said:
As she has lost what seems like a large amount of weight (it takes longer to gain than lose the weight), I’d suggest you syringe feed her to help her maintain or gain. Some members give their piggies oats to help with weight gain. All the best at the vets tomorrow.
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Ok, thank you
 
Hello everyone. Just got a call back from the vet and Chocolate may have a UTI or a tumour in her bladder. We are trying antibiotics for a UTI and hoping that it will fix her up. Thanks everyone for the help.
 
I'm so sorry for your loss. Six is a good age for a guinea pig, over the years I've lost three between age 6 and 7, passing away fairly suddenly without much in the way of symptoms beforehand. She was obviously much loved and lived a good life with you. Be kind to yourself while you grieve. ((HUGS)) to you!
 
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