Prof-Piggie
New Born Pup
Recently one of our guineas (Toffee) had a red protuberant swelling in the corner of her eye. The first vet we saw said it was an infected third eyelid (until I argued that Guineas do not have the nictitating membrane that reptiles, birds and some animals have!)
We agreed that the cause was an infected lachrymal gland situated in the corner of the eye close to the nose. The infection had also caused an ulcer to form on the eye itself which the vet thought could take Toffee's sight.
After 1 week of gentle bathing with mild salt solution, application of Fucithalmic gel into the eye and 2ml Baytril oral antibiotic via syringe we again saw the vet who decided we should continue with the process for a further week. The eye was looking better but still required attention.
On our return to the surgery we saw a different vet who had the view Toffee had had an infected third eyelid and went on to test for sight by jabbing a pen in the direction of Toffee's eye. I explained that it was in fact an infected Lachrymal Gland because guineas don't have a third eyelid and further explained that they don't have a blink reflex either as they will frequently sleep with their eyes open, which is why they have a significant number of tear ducts around the orbit of the eyes to keep them moist.
Happily Toffee is now fully recovered. The eye has sunk a little into her head suggesting that there has been some permanent damage to the surrounding tissue. However, it is difficult to tell if she has sight in the eye but judging by the way she behaves I am certain she has some sight!
Most vets will do their best for every animal that presents to them. Unfortunately there are still a number who have little or no knowledge of "exotics" (the category into which Cavies fall).
This being the case it is up to us as owners to learn as much as possible about our furry little friends so we can support the vet when the need arises. The Guinea Pig Forum is an excellent tool in providing a wealth of advice and information!
We agreed that the cause was an infected lachrymal gland situated in the corner of the eye close to the nose. The infection had also caused an ulcer to form on the eye itself which the vet thought could take Toffee's sight.
After 1 week of gentle bathing with mild salt solution, application of Fucithalmic gel into the eye and 2ml Baytril oral antibiotic via syringe we again saw the vet who decided we should continue with the process for a further week. The eye was looking better but still required attention.
On our return to the surgery we saw a different vet who had the view Toffee had had an infected third eyelid and went on to test for sight by jabbing a pen in the direction of Toffee's eye. I explained that it was in fact an infected Lachrymal Gland because guineas don't have a third eyelid and further explained that they don't have a blink reflex either as they will frequently sleep with their eyes open, which is why they have a significant number of tear ducts around the orbit of the eyes to keep them moist.
Happily Toffee is now fully recovered. The eye has sunk a little into her head suggesting that there has been some permanent damage to the surrounding tissue. However, it is difficult to tell if she has sight in the eye but judging by the way she behaves I am certain she has some sight!
Most vets will do their best for every animal that presents to them. Unfortunately there are still a number who have little or no knowledge of "exotics" (the category into which Cavies fall).
This being the case it is up to us as owners to learn as much as possible about our furry little friends so we can support the vet when the need arises. The Guinea Pig Forum is an excellent tool in providing a wealth of advice and information!
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