Flystrike Prevention?

[C a v y lover]

Hello, I am new to this forum, and am taking care of two baby guinea pigs. They are housed outside and I am starting to see some flies loitering around the cage area. I live in Australia, where it is spring. Should I worry about flystrike?

 

[Veggies Galore]

This is an very informative thread ...

Fly Strike

 

[4pigs&counting]

Mine are indoor piggies but following a fly problem this summer their cages are now permanently covered in fly netting held on with pegs - it is white and see through - (someone else here suggested using net curtains) - works very well and now I don't need to worry too much about them being bothered by flies. When the door of my outside rabbit hutch (old playhouse) is open I have a wire mesh panel to fit the space - I have also stretched a layer of fly netting across the mesh here too to stop them getting in - still lots of air flow and light but without the flies hopefully!

 

[Wiebke]

If you are in a rural area with lots of sheep or cattle etc, you may want to cover the cage with fly netting, especially if you have any ill or frail guinea pigs. At risk are the piggies with open sores or that are not able to clean themselves well because of arthritis or mobility issues. I would also be careful with guinea pigs with blood in their urine (urinary tract issues); please only take them outside for grazing under supervision.

More tips in our fly strike guide.