Worming

Worms are a type of endoparasite, which means they live within the animal’s body. Worms are relatively rare in guinea pigs but it is important to know what signs to look out for and to try and prevent your guinea pig from contracting worms in the first place.

If guinea pigs eat grass or fresh food from areas soiled by cats, dogs, foxes and other animals it is possible for them to ingest the eggs that are passed on the faeces from other animals. Even if the faeces are no longer on the grass/food the eggs can survive for some time and it won’t be possible to see them. For this reason it is important to only collect grass and fresh food from areas that you know other animals will not have passed faeces in and ensure you wash all fresh food before feeding to your guinea pigs.

Although rare, guinea pigs can become secondary hosts to tapeworms and also roundworms. It may be that they are more common in guinea pigs but rarely cause problems. Either way, if you notice signs of worms or see any around your guinea pigs back end it is important to get treatment from your vet.

Despite its name, ringworm is fungus and not a worm and treatment is very different to endoparasitic infestations. Your vet will be able to advise you.

Current advice is that guinea pigs do not require regular worming.

During the initial stages it is unlikely you will see any signs, but later on you may observe some of the following signs:

• Bloated or large abdomen
• Weight loss (even if they appear to be eating normally)
• Lethargy
• Rough and unkempt coat
• Loss of appetite
• Unusual droppings that may be softer than normal

If you think your guinea pig is unwell, even if you are not sure why, it is important to make an appointment to see your vet as soon as possible. Guinea pigs can deteriorate rapidly without veterinary attention.

Although not licensed for use in guinea pigs, if your guinea pig has or you suspect they have worms, your vet is likely to prescribe an anti-parasitic medication called Fenbendazole, which is commonly referred to by its trade name of Panacur. This is a liquid wormer that you will need to give into your guinea pigs mouth for several days. If the guinea pig lives with others it is a wise idea to treat all in contact guinea pigs at the same time.

Your vet may request a faecal sample prior to administering medication, but sometimes this won’t be necessary.

Wash all fresh food and only pick from areas know to be free from animal faeces.

Clean your guinea pigs housing out regularly.

If you have dogs and cats in your household ensure they are up to date with their worming regime and do not allow your guinea pigs to graze in areas that the cats and dogs use to toilet in.