Bald Spot On New Guinea Pig

[cath000]

Hi
We got two boars approx 8 wks old about ten days ago. They are settling in well and seem happy, however I've noticed on one he has a small bald patch just above his bits but below his tail, it looks a bit dry and is bald but not scabby. I've googled images of typical ringworm and it doesn't look like that. I'm going to ring vets tomorrow but I'm a bit worried, does anyone have any other ideas what it could be. My son is concerned his new piggie is 'infected'
Thanks in advance

 

[Beans&Toast]

Is it maybe the grease gland youre talking about...?

 

[Wiebke]

It sounds like a grease gland to me. You can find pictures and information in these links here:
Boar Care: Bits, Bums & Baths
Guinea pig body quirks

We have got lots of helpful information for new owners via this link here; you may want to take your time reading through we have collected the guides that answer the most asked for questions from new owners:
" Starter Kit" Of Information Threads For New Owners

 

[cath000]

Thanks, I've had a read through and I'm thinking maybe it could be, can a grease gland look like a bald patch? X

 

[Posyrose]

Grease glands are bald, so yes they look like a small bald patch when clean. Eight week old guineas will have clean grease glands.

 

[cath000]

Hi thanks for the replies it's really appreciated, I've tried to attach a picture.

 

[cath000]

Here X

 

[Wiebke]

Here X

View attachment 45675

View attachment 45676

Thank you for the pictures!

That is not a grease gland, but it looks like rather like a fungal patch between the genitalia and the grease gland to me. Please have that seen by a vet! It is more typical for the face/neck area, but it can appear anywhere on the body.

You can claim any vet cost back from a pet shop as the infection/exposure has happened at the shop. Just present the bill together with the sale receipt.
Guinea Pig Vet Locator

 

[cath000]

Thanks, I've booked an appointment for tomorrow

 

[Wiebke]

Thanks, I've booked an appointment for tomorrow

Good! If it turns out to be fungal (presumably ringworm) which is sadly not uncommon in new shop piggies, please be careful in handling and with hygiene. It is the single most infectious thing that can affect all mammals, including humans! But if you are careful and follow the tips in our guide that I have given you, then you should get past it well and not have to worry about a return. You do not need to separare your piggies as any infection has likely alreaady happened, but you may bathe the companion with a medicated shampoo or dip to prevent it from breaking out. Any fungal has to run its due course, so it is getting worse before it gets better.