Scabies

Scabies in guinea pigs is caused by the scabies mite. There are roughly two different types of mites: cave mites and non-cave mites. The most common mite found in guinea pigs is the Trixacarus caviae (a digging mite). This means that the mite digs a tunnel in your guinea pig's skin and then settles inside. Because the mites burrow into the skin, they cause serious problems faster than non-burrowing mites.

What Are the Symptoms of Scabies in Guinea Pigs?
The mites sit in your guinea pig's fur and burrow through the skin. This burrowing work causes wounds in the skin. These sores are primarily on the head, neck and shoulders, but can also appear on the thighs, back and abdomen. Burrowing also causes itching, and the itching causes guinea pigs to rub, scratch, and bite. This creates bald spots and larger wounds. In addition, the skin thickens and scabs form. Often pus is also produced. Guinea pigs sometimes feel very sick and want to eat less. They also have a strong itching and can react very violently to touch, sometimes even with an epileptic fit. When your guinea pig has an epileptic fit, you should always think about mites.

How is scabies diagnosed?
Based on what you tell and what your vet sees, a vet can infer mites. Your vet will then need to take a scrape off your guinea pig's skin. This may look bad to you, but it isn't to the guinea pig. Because the mites burrow, your vet will need to do what's called a "deep scraping." H. use a small spoon to remove some superficial skin cells until it starts to bleed. These wounds are similar to our abrasions and heal very quickly. This scratching should be viewed under a microscope as the mites are too small to see with the naked eye. Only when your vet can see mites (or mite eggs) under a microscope can you say for sure that your guinea pig has mange mites.

In a few cases, your guinea pig may need to sleep for the curettage. This is because guinea pigs can cramp from itching when scratching. This is not necessary for every guinea pig and must be assessed by the local veterinarian.

How does my guinea pig get scabies?
Guinea pigs become infected through direct contact with other guinea pigs. This can happen in the shop, but also at the breeder's. Guinea pigs can probably also become infected through hay containing mites. Mites can go unnoticed in your guinea pig's fur for a long time.

What can I do about scabies in my guinea pig?
Exactly how your guinea pig gets mites is hard to say. It is usually recommended to replace the hay with new hay. Cleaning and disinfecting your guinea pig's cage is also recommended.

There are also droppers that you can press down your guinea pig's throat. You use one dropper and then another after 14 days, sometimes a third treatment is needed (14 days after the previous treatment). Make sure you never treat more often! Too high a dose can be very dangerous for your guinea pig. You can buy these pipettes in pet shops, for example from the Beaphar brand.

If the scab is very stubborn, your vet can provide you with an ointment to apply to the ear and/or eye sores. These ointments are not approved for use on guinea pigs, so use must always be done in close consultation with your veterinarian.

How can I prevent my other guinea pigs/pets from getting scabies too?
Guinea pigs that live together have infected each other. It is therefore advisable to treat all your guinea pigs as soon as one is diagnosed with the scabies mite. Other pets cannot be infected with Trixacarus caviae. If other pets also suffer from mange-like symptoms, you should see a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis!

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