Balding Abby

[guineagrannie]

One of my abby girls is starting to lose hair from the centre of her rosettes. There are no scabs and she doesnt seem to be scratching. Apart from her thinning hair, she is eating and drinking and acting normally. She is between 3 and 4 years old. Any ideas would be appreciated.

 

[Guinea-pigGaga]

At three to four years, I do not believe your sow's issues are due to her age. Senior cavies can experience hair-thinning and became 'follically challenged'.

However, there could be a number of issues, including hormonal changes. Therefore, I would advise a visit to your veterinary practice.

 

[Laura-CCC4]

Is it on all her rosettes, or just the rosettes in a particular place (i.e. the sides of her body)?

At the moment I'd be inclined to suspect hormonal given what you describe, but treating for mites and bathing in an anti-fungal shampoo would help to rule out other causes.

 

[Wiebke]

I agree with Laura.

You would notice a general hair loss on the sides at the centre of the rosettes first. Hormonal issues and ovarian cysts are not rare in middle aged/older girls and are often accompanied by general hair loss on the sides and no skin irritation.
However, you want to exclude any parasites/fungal problems first.


http://www.guinealynx.info/hairloss.html
http://www.guinealynx.info/ovarian_cysts.html

 

[guineagrannie]

The hair thinning seems to be mainly along her back and towards her rear. My friend, who has about 50 years experience with guinea pigs is coming to have a look at her tomorrow. If she cant help I'll go my vet with the piggy. None of the other pigs (some older than this particular pig) seem to have this problem. I have done a little bit of research which came up with the same ideas as you have offered. Thank you all for your advice.