Fungal Infections-Advise/Help?!

[Kym]

Hi everyone,

One of my Guinea pigs has a fungal infection. I have have been using the shampoo solution three times a week on both of my piggies as I was advised to do so as the other may also get it. Also, I have been putting the cream on twice a day since and disinfecting the cage after baths.

I started the treatment last wednesday the 14th (so a week yesterday). The first bits I noticed have begun to heal (shoulders and bottom) and the hair has dropped out. However, it seems to have got worse over his face but I can see slight improvement. They have also both been treated for mites.

Is this normal for it to get worse before it gets better?
How long does the healing process take?

I am just seeking as much advise as possible before adding to vet bills. Last year when Harry died from upper respiritary problems I had given the vet over £100 in just one day for him to die the next. So unfortunatly I don't really trust vets and am hoping to get the problem fixed before I have to hand them my life savings again.

Also George is fine in himself. Still running around and squeeking etc...I just want him to get better as soon as possible. My partner and I are hoping to expand our piggy family and adopt another pair after Christmas. However, George needs to be better first

x

 

[flintstones]

what shampoo are you using?

Fungal cultures are needed to ascertain what you are dealing with.

 

[3.l1ttl3.p1g5]

Mine did look worse, with larger patches and some hair loss around the edges but not as rough, then the fur was growing back. What shampoo are you using? I had imaverol from the vets and apart from the fact it cost more than £30 it was excellent. 4 baths and they were fine! I know fungal can be very hard to treat. How are you cleaning their faces? I had to use a soft bristled toothbrush to work the shampoo in, especially as it was near the eyes and nostril but it seemed to work, I know you really have to soak the patches with the shampoo. The toothbrush was definitely easier than trying to remove the crusts then bath them! Good luck!

 

[Suzygpr]

Fungal often looks worse after the treatment has started as the Imaverol (I assume this is the solution you are using) brings out the lesions that are brewing but not yet erupted.

It is important to complete the full course, I normally treat every 3 days for 4 treatments, and if there are still signs of infection I do another round of 3 treatments. Fungal is very stubborn.

Suzy x

 

[Suzygpr]

double post >

 

[Kym]

I think it may be the Imaverol, it was kindly given to me by the rescue. I know it has begun to make a difference. It just seems to be an extremely slow process!

Also I have been using my fingers to get to all the areas. He absolutely hates me touching his face though so this can take some time. I think I would be worried using a toothbrush as I know that they can be quite tough and George is only 9 weeks I'm terrified of hurting him.

Even when it has gone i will continue to treat them both for a couple of months as I know it incubates for up to four weeks.

They have both had three baths so far. To know that it may get a bit worse before getting better does put me at ease a little. I just feel so sorry for him. I'm sure he thinks i'm evil haha making him have nasty baths and rubbing him in nasty cream He kept running away at first but now he lets me pick him up for the treatment which makes me feel a little less of a monster I always remember to give them both treats after this so they dont hate me too much

Thank-you for the advice, if there is anything else please let me know. I can't wait to be able to put their little snuggle beds back in!

x