Foot spurs?

[Livvann]

Hello,
New to this forum and new to guinea pig life (but absolutely loving it). I have one rescue piggie (Jamie) who I believe to be around 3 years old, I am in contact with a rescue centre and hope to set him up a few speed dates as soon after he’s had his vet check (end of this week).
I just want to check that what I have found on the bottom/side of his front paw is foot spurs and not the dreaded bumblefoot! His feet are quite red and puffy which has made me worry, however on previous checks his feet have always been like that. He’s not the most active of boars… but he will hunt around for his veggies (as this is the only way he gets it). He eats… constantly, drinks lots, wheeks for more veggies and then teeth chatters when I say no (because he’s had too many). Just want a little advice from some more experienced piggie owners. Thank you!

 

[Bill & Ted]

Welcome to the forum
I’m afraid I can’t advice on foot spurs or bumble foot but a member of the Health Team will be along to advise
Always good to get a vet check though to put your mind at rest x

 

[Wiebke]

Hello,
New to this forum and new to guinea pig life (but absolutely loving it). I have one rescue piggie (Jamie) who I believe to be around 3 years old, I am in contact with a rescue centre and hope to set him up a few speed dates as soon after he’s had his vet check (end of this week).
I just want to check that what I have found on the bottom/side of his front paw is foot spurs and not the dreaded bumblefoot! His feet are quite red and puffy which has made me worry, however on previous checks his feet have always been like that. He’s not the most active of boars… but he will hunt around for his veggies (as this is the only way he gets it). He eats… constantly, drinks lots, wheeks for more veggies and then teeth chatters when I say no (because he’s had too many). Just want a little advice from some more experienced piggie owners. Thank you!

Hi and welcome

Foot spurs are harmless growths of dead skin that develop on the sides of the foot pads; generally more commonly on the froont feet. Unless they are really sticking out and posing a risk of catching and ripping into live skin, they are best left alone. Your piggy has them.

Bumblefoot (pododermatitis) is an infection in the foot pads where most pressure is on them. Bugs from soiled bedding can get through tiny cracks in the skin and can cause a localised spot (that has no equivalent on the other foot) which then develops a scab and a bleeding sore when it rips off.
Bumblefoot happens commonly in the neglected piggies living in their own uncleaned waste, in those that have to live on mesh flooring (for which guinea pig feet are not adapted) and in the elderly or piggies with limited mobility that are more likely to sit in just one spot and that may also be compromised by a no longer optimal blood circulation.
Check whether you are using too much washing powder/soap for your bedding and be aware that pink feet and ears can go rather red all over when your piggy is shedding excess heat (they do not sweat or pant).

If you have real concerns over bumblefoot, please see a vet for a hands-on diagnosis.

Here is more information:
Guinea Lynx :: Guinea Pig Feet and Foot Problems
Looking after guinea pigs with limited or no mobility