Extra Claw Removal

[LouiseS]

Hello, I've only had my 2 piggies 2 weeks and since beginning to handle them a little I noticed what I thought was poo on the back leg of Rubble - when I tried to pull it off he squealed so I thought it might be stuck in his fur but it turned out to be a tiny extra claw hanging on by a thread of skin!! I have read that this can be relatively common in guinea pigs but am concerned as I would hate it to get ripped off in a squabble or caught on something so contacted P@H where I got them from. I have got an appointment on Monday to take him in to have it removed - fingers cross by scissors and an expert vet but they have made an appointment for surgery - I am worried !!

Should I take both for company - I was thinking not if he has to stay in for surgery. I'm really worried about anesthetic as well as I know this can be dangerous for small animals.

Any advice please - has anyone had this before?

 

[Wiebke]

Hello, I've only had my 2 piggies 2 weeks and since beginning to handle them a little I noticed what I thought was poo on the back leg of Rubble - when I tried to pull it off he squealed so I thought it might be stuck in his fur but it turned out to be a tiny extra claw hanging on by a thread of skin! I have read that this can be relatively common in guinea pigs but am concerned as I would hate it to get ripped off in a squabble or caught on something so contacted P@H where I got them from. I have got an appointment on Monday to take him in to have it removed - fingers cross by scissors and an expert vet but they have made an appointment for surgery - I am worried !

Should I take both for company - I was thinking not if he has to stay in for surgery. I'm really worried about anesthetic as well as I know this can be dangerous for small animals.

Any advice please - has anyone had this before?

Hi! Please don't panic - all that is needed is relatively small whiff of gas. It is not a big procedure. Please ask the vet clinic as to whether they are fine with the companion coming or not. it differs from clinic to clinic.

Polydactyly is not quite common, but not all that rare, either. We get a about handful of inquiries in a year. The extra toe should ideally be removed by a vet if it is attached only loosely, so you are doing the right thing. Guinea Lynx :: Guinea Pig Feet and Foot Problems

If you need to see a more knowledgeable vet at any point (and more likely over another issue), please feel free to make use of our recommended UK vets locator on the top bar.

 

[gizzy]

it is caled polydactyly this tells you all about the candition

Polydactyly in Guinea Pigs

 

[LouiseS]

Thank you that has really helped and put my mind at rest.

 

[Deleted member 114675]

You've had great advice above.

Whenever I take one of my guinea pigs to the vet, I take the others for company . I think it would be more stressful for the "ill" guinea pig to go on their own.