Piggie Tonic

[SnoozlesandFuzz]

Hello I’m new to the Forum and looking for some advice.

Snoozles and Fuzz are sisters and they are 4.5 years old now. They are starting to show their age a little bit and Fuzz has been a bit under the weather recently, sleeping more and being less vocal. She’s eating and pooping fine- and has the occasional pop-corning zoomies when she’s outside, but just getting older I guess.

I had read here about Metatone tonic and was wondering if it would give the girls a bit of a winter boost? However it does not seem to be available in the UK anymore. Does anyone have suggestions or recommendations for an alternative please?

 

[Merab]

Welcome to the forum.
I’ve never heard of Metatone tonic but personally I wouldn’t give my piggies anything not vet prescribed.
The health experts will probably know more and may advise differently .

Older piggies, like older people do slow down and sleep more.
As long as their weight is steady and their poop output is good.

We would love to see pictures of your piggies.
Looking forward to getting to know you.

 

[Piggies&buns]

Welcome to the forum

I’ve not heard of it but as above - unless prescribed by a vet I don’t and won’t supplement with anything.

As a winter boost my oldest boy (almost 7) gets a spoonful of oats a day to help him with his weight but that is all.

 

[Eriathwen]

I used to offer metatone many years ago, under the advice of a friend with a lot of piggies. Once I actually read the box though I stopped immediately as it contained quite a lot of ethanol, the "dose" had the same alcohol content as 5mls of wine if I remember correctly!

These days I offer critical care to my older piggies, and Arthri-aid, those contain lots of vitamins etc and supplements for aging piggies while being designed for the safe use with animals. Along with rye hay and cereal hay for some added protein and calories. The occasional handful of rolled oats as well always go down well!

If you are really wanting a liquid vitamin supplement I belive Pro C can be given as a liquid, however doesn't contain the B vitamins found in critical care if I remember right? Rodevit multi drink is a similar product however, which does. Both are designed for rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets.

 

[SnoozlesandFuzz]

Thanks for the replies everyone. Absolutely - I’m looking to boost their vitamin intake, not make them tipsy! They already have a good diet, but they are very precious to us so as they get older I just want to make sure their diet is optimised to keep them healthy.

Here is a picture of them snuggled up together asleep on my knee. They like to doze off in front to the TV.

 

[fluffysal]

Welcome to the forum. They are gorgeous

 

[Posyrose]

What sweet piggies! Welcome to the forum. I think Peter Gurney recommended Metatone in his books, but guinea pig care has certainly moved on since then.