Foot Problems

[Mali's Mum]

Hi all,

About two weeks ago we noticed our piggy Willow was not walking as smoothly as normal on her front left paw, it was only very slight but she maybe had a slight hop when she walks/runs. We checked her feet, nails etc and all looks normal. We Phoned our vet and explained the situation that she is still running around, and not in pain as she puts weight on it and he said it's probably a slight sprain to keep her 'downstairs' in her cage and bring her in if the situation doesn't improve.

My partner checked her again tonight and we noticed the 'bad foot' is a wee bit smaller than her right one. She seems oblivious and is running around her cage as I type but has anyone else experienced this?

Thanks

Claire

 

[Wiebke]

Hi all,

About two weeks ago we noticed our piggy Willow was not walking as smoothly as normal on her front left paw, it was only very slight but she maybe had a slight hop when she walks/runs. We checked her feet, nails etc and all looks normal. We Phoned our vet and explained the situation that she is still running around, and not in pain as she puts weight on it and he said it's probably a slight sprain to keep her 'downstairs' in her cage and bring her in if the situation doesn't improve.

My partner checked her again tonight and we noticed the 'bad foot' is a wee bit smaller than her right one. She seems oblivious and is running around her cage as I type but has anyone else experienced this?

Thanks

Claire

No, unless it is from not putting the full weight on it.

Sprains are pretty common. As the bulk of the weight of a guinea pig is resting on her front legs, they have to use their back legs more like springs (bunny hopping) when they move to compensate, so it usually looks more dramatic than it is. Just be patient; depending on how bad the sprain is, it take a bit of time to clear. The fact that is normally mobile and active means that whatever is bothering her is not serious.