Guinea Pig Eating Old Poop

[Calico Trio]

I know that guinea pigs eat certain poops-the ones that have nutrients. I noticed that one of my three guinea pigs is eating old poops just recently. I have been keeping an eye on her and I saw her smell the poops on the mat and eat one. She is eating regularly-eats timothy hay, veggies, pellets, etc. Mimi (the guinea pig in question) popcorns sometimes during floor time and eats her vitamins (Oxbow urinary support tablets and Oxbow Vitamin C) and for the most part is behaving normally. We got a new treat a few weeks ago (Oxbow Simple Rewards Veggie Treats) but that is the only thing that has been added to their diet.

Is this a sign of concern or is this my guinea pig being weird?

 

[Siikibam]

When you say old, do you mean a poop that’s been dropped by another piggy?

 

[Calico Trio]

When you say old, do you mean a poop that’s been dropped by another piggy?

It's a poop that may or may not be hers but from a few hours or a day ago.

 

[Siikibam]

@Wiebke @PigglePuggle @Piggies&buns @VickiA @furryfriends (TEAS) any idea?

 

[Calico Trio]

I really need advice. If this is a red flag then I need to make a vet appointment, which may be complicated during the pandemic.

 

[Siikibam]

I have heard of piggies stealing poop direct from other piggies’ butts. But not of eating days old ones. Are you sure they’re that old and not just dropped?
Have you seen any other behaviour change or any symptoms like weight loss, not eating as much veg, soft or runny poo etc?

Please also be patient. We are a (mainly) UK based forum demographic so most people were asleep at the time you posted. It’s also voluntarily run and those who can answer have to get on with things in their own life as well as spend time here.

PS please can you add your country to tour profile. It makes it easier to tailor information to you.

 

[PigglePuggle]

Take a deep breath and check your piggy's weight! If her weight, eating and behaviour are fine I dont think this is anything to worry about... mine sometimes eat older poops from their friends, just because they happen to be in front of their noses, and smell interesting- as long as you are cleaning the cage regularly and supplying plenty fresh hay there is no harm in it!