I want to put my guinea pigs on the grass. But we have a lot of cats around, I’m worried that the fleas could be on the grass and effect the Guineas.. is that possible? The run I have currently has a waterproof bottom on it so they wouldn’t be on the grass. But I’m still worried about flies and fleas! (I’m a first time owner)
Parasites are species specific. Guinea pigs do not have fleas; they have two sorts of invisible mites, mage mites who burrow their eggs in the painfully inflamed skin (trixacarus caviae) and hay/fur mites who fix their tiny egg cases to the hairs. They also have lice, which are small pale crawly things. If in contact with rabbits, they can pick up some things from them.
Vulnerable guinea pigs (old, frail, with impaired mobility or neglected piggies with open sores) that can no longer clean their genitalia are at risk of fly strike. Healthy guinea pigs that can keep themselves clean are not at risk.
Fly Strike
Worms are extremely rare in guinea pigs; we have seen perhaps a handful cases in over a decade with tens of thousands of piggies passing through this forum where worms have been supected and even less where they have been proven. Most of these were fully outdoors piggies and not just put out on the lawn occasionally.
It is best to see a vet whenever you suspect parasitic problems and to treat with a high dosed good quality product. That is the best way of getting on top of any problem quickly. Parasites are not a huge problem in well kept pet piggies and with prompt correct treatment will never get past nuisance level.
Please be aware that shop brands are low dosed and can't do more than suppress symptoms and help to develop resitance if used regularly; they are not licensed to sell vet quality medication.
Flea sprays and powders should not be used on guinea pigs; they can be lethal.
Fleas And Flea Powders
Please do not put your guinea pigs on grass that is used by dogs or foxes; their pee is poisonous.
Any run needs to predator proof (including a solid top that cat's can't rip through and not just some flimsy netting) if left unsupervised for any amount of time.
Please do not put guinea pigs out on the lawn that have not been accustomed to eating grass; always provide double shade - i.e. any hidey needs to stand in shade or it will act as a baking oven.
Here are our full lawn time tips:
Feeding Grass And Preparing Your Piggies For Lawn Time
During heatwaves always keep your guinea pigs in the shade and in the coolest place possible, whether that is indoors or outdoors. Make sure that their hutches are always in the shade, too, and not place in a heat trap. Guinea pigs can die from heat stroke.
Hot Weather Management And Heat Strokes
