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Bladder sludge?

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Hermes

Hermes

Teenage Guinea Pig
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I just had Hermes out for a cuddle and he decided to pee everywhere in typical piggy fashion. However, he was sat on a black fabric throw and I noticed tiny white crystals in his urine (like caster sugar). They just disintegrated into nothing when I tried to feel them so I wouldn't say it felt gritty. I've noticed calcium deposits in the cage when it comes to cleaning out but again, not gritty, just dusty white marks. Otherwise he (and Blondie) both seem fine with no sign of illness or weightloss. They both drink a lot of water.

What's the protocol for this? I was going to cut down the dry food ration (which I think I was overdoing anyway), maybe switch them over to the Burgess sensitive pellet and increase the fresh veg/grass ration because I don't think I've been giving them enough lately. Also taking into account which veggies are high calcium and reducing those. Then just keep an eye on the situation and go to the vets if it doesn't improve or there are any other problems.
 
I think if you have a browse through Guinea Lynx they say how much calcium every different type of vegetable contains. I also think the sensative nuggets would be good and also maybe speak to your vet next time you see them and they will give you a diet suited exactly for your Guinea Pigs.
 
Firstly, you need to cut out calcium high foods. I suggest sticking to just hay, grass and maybe romain lettuce/cucumber as a treat and avoid any other veg and dry food. If the crystals don't clear up then you may need to see the vet for further medication but hopefully, that won't be necessary.

Fingers and paws crossed this clears up. Is there any squeeking/pain during pee?
 
Okay, thanks. There's no sign of pain, squeaking or hunching when he's urinating, just the crystals.
 
That's good. Crystals are the start of bladder stone formation but if he's passing them without pain/problem then this is good, it's a good sign he won't develop stones if you can do something about his calcium levels.

Our Biscuit had this problem. I suspect fresh veg and the small amount of pellets he used to get were the culprits. We had an x-ray done a couple of times but neither time showed any stones and crystals can be too small for an x-ray.

If he's not in any pain then I guess there's no stone formed yet so I'd recommend just keeping an eye on his urine for a few days and (fingers and paws crossed) you should see it clearing up - no pun intended - soon :)
 
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