Elderly Piggy Losing Weight?

[Ellie&PeppaMay]

Hey there! Okay i'm still trying to figure out how to do this all, I use these forums regularly, but this is my first post!

I have had guinea pigs all throughout my life, and I study animal management, but obviously I have a lot to learn about them!


My question is about my only piggy, Peppa, who lives alone because her friend died last year. She is 6 this month, and I think too old to have to deal with the stress of a new friend, so she is living out her life with all the food and cuddles she needs! but I've noticed that gradually she has become very skinny in general, her belly is round and she eats a fair bit still! But I can feel her ribs and pelvis quite easily is this a normal thing for an elderly pig? And what foods do you suggest to help her keep on her weight? (She is still 940g, so not terribly underweight, just skinny 'on her back'?)

Any help/opinions much appreciated!

 

[Stewybus]

Generally guinea pigs of any age tend to eat less when they're by themselves. I noticed this last year with one of my poorly piggies didn't eat much until I put her back with friends where she started to eat normally again. It appears to be down to competition, if there's others to share with they have to get their food quick.

I would keep weighing her weekly & as long as she doesn't lose huge amounts in a week eg over 3 ounces or over 60 grams I wouldn't worry too much. Things like porridge oat (dry & uncooked) could be added to her diet.

If you're intending to still keep piggies you could consider taking her boar dating & find a suitable younger neutered male who would be more likely to bond than another female at her age.

 

[helen105281]

How much has she lost over what period of time?