Health Checks

[Atalia]

I would like to ask for tips and learn some information on health checks! (Poorly enough I was unaware of what it was until a couple weeks ago.) When I bought my pigs from a pet shop (unaware of rescues at the time) they did not tell me anything of their needs and requirements. So I went off of what google said about basic care. Anyhow I was wondering about what I should check and look for! Any information on this top will be so helpful!

 

[Swissgreys]

Our guinea pigs are handled daily, but usually by the children, so I schedule an 'official' health check day once a week.
The pigs are weighed, and I check them over for any lumps, bumps, scratches, dry skin patches, etc.
I trim nails (if needed).
I spend about 5 mins focusing on each pig, and I also watch them eat a couple of things, to be certain they are eating properly.

 

[Mother Hubbard]

It's great that you've found the forum, a wealth of great information to help you.
I do my main checks when I'm cleaning out, once a week.

1. Nail trim
2. Teeth check
3. Check ears for any scabs etc.
4. General overall check of fur
5. Bum - check for impacted, boar glue etc.

I also weigh them...but most importantly I keep a Piggy diary. Date rescued, nail trimming, vet visits & treatments, baths, worm treatment date etc. Invaluable to be honest. You can't always remember everything.

 

[Atalia]

Thank you, I'm going to try and find some more forums on it if possible!

 

[Freela]

I just give them a going over when I'm handling them (which I do daily)- coat, whether the nails are too long, whether eyes and ears look bright, and weigh once a week or so. I'm also lucky enough that I see them often throughout the day (I work from home) so I tend to spot 'off' behavior quicker than I would if I were at work during the day. One thing I do daily (since I have had a couple pigs with dental abscesses) is to run my hands along to jawline to feel for any lumps or bumps.