Lou2z
New Born Pup
I wanted to share this information as it could save somebody the heartache that my family have been through this past couple of weeks. It is possible for guinea pigs to contract the common cold from us and if untreated it can kill them. Our first guinea pig started sounding rattly on Saturday evening. We were going to take her to the vet, but sadly she'd passed away early Sunday morning. Our second piggy died suddenly a week later having shown no apparent signs of illness. We made an emergency appointment and took the remaining piggies to the vet who confirmed they had a respiratory illness. She was brilliant. She gave them antibiotics and (touch wood) they seem fine. The vet said that guinea pigs are good at hiding this type of illness and by the time we realise they are ill, it can be too late. Now I know the signs I will always check them closely. If you hold your piggy to your ear and hear any sort of noise other than the heartbeat and normal breathing, please get help for your pet. If you have a cold or any other illness please take great care not to breathe over your little friend (and make sure you have clean hands). We were devastated to lose Stampy just before Christmas, then Leigh just after. We'd all been ill and now I know they can contract colds from us, I'm horrified that I found out this information too late. Any tiny rasping sound should be treated straight away. Don't wait until it's too late x