Can piggies get fleas?

[neuroticmum]

I was under the impression they don't get fleas but am asking as after handling them recently I've found little red "bites" on my arms, i don't have any other animal that these could have come from. My boys dont appear to be itching or anything.

Am just trying to rule things out....

Thanks
Carolyn

 

[mikulinek]

I was under the impression they don't get fleas but am asking as after handling them recently I've found little red "bites" on my arms, i don't have any other animal that these could have come from. My boys dont appear to be itching or anything.

Am just trying to rule things out....

Thanks
Carolyn

I have never experienced it but guinea pigs can get lice so it could be them. Have a good look through their hair first of all. If you're really concerned or you notice anything in their hair, you will need to get an anti-lice treatment from your vet.

 

[Hermes]

None of the guinea pig parasites will actually bite humans but they can cause dermatitis reactions. I think one of the rabbit fur mites is known for this particularly. The other possibility is you've become allergic to your pigs. I'd suggest giving them a course of ivermectin treatments and seeing if it goes away.

This may be useful - http://www.guinealynx.info/parasites.html