Are tea tree skin creams safe for guinea pigs?

[missy]

Hi all,

I've recently heard that tea tree oil shouldn't be used on guinea pigs, so I'm wondering if a tea tree cream/ointment is ok to use.

In the past I've occasionally used Johnson's Small Animal Tea Tree Skin Cream on my pigs, when they've had tiny patches of dry skin or for a soothing treat on the soles of their feet. This particular product specifically states that it's suitable for guinea pigs but I thought I'd check here before using it again.

Thanks

 

[alcesterpigs]

I no longer use Tea Tree Oil on my pigs.
I did get good results using it to treat pigs with skin problems. However, there were a few cases where pigs died about a week after treatment. I cannot prove that the TTO was in anyway implicated in their deaths, maybe it was coincidence.
I now use other forms of treatment.
I have not used TT ointment to treat any pigs. I assume that it is safe to use, the manufacturers would not make the claim unless they were absolutely certain of their facts.

 

[missy]

I understand what you're saying. So technically/legally it should be safe.....but I'd personally give far more credence to anecdotal evidence from an extremely experienced guinea pig owner rather than a manufacturer's claims (hence me asking here!)

I bought this before I discovered Gorgeous Guineas. I'll stop using this cream and see what alternatives they have instead.....unless you can suggest a suitable alternative.

Thank you

 

[Laura-CCC4]

Good creams for treating sores/lesions or dry skin include Bepanthen (baby nappy rash ointment), Aloe Vera ointment/gel, or anything from Gorgeous Guineas!