How Do You Make Sure No Bloat?
- Thread starter Colette
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HansPiggies
Teenage Guinea Pig
I think mainly just making sure you don't give them too much of certain veg like broccoli, cabbage and making sure they have a high fibre diet ie good quality hay at all times and good quality pellet 
Kerrie74
Adult Guinea Pig
Yeap just watch what you feed them
http://www.happycavy.com/what-can-guinea-pigs-eat/
It's also caused by blockages. There's some info at the link below about it
http://www.guinealynx.info/emergency.html#bloat
http://www.happycavy.com/what-can-guinea-pigs-eat/
It's also caused by blockages. There's some info at the link below about it
http://www.guinealynx.info/emergency.html#bloat
Merrypigs Sanctuary
Adult Guinea Pig
I agree with the others, not too much 'gassy veg' like broccolli! Keeping the pigs digestive system going with fibre is essential too to stop food sitting and fermenting in the caecum, which makes pigs a bit gassy! Keeping them active too helps move food along
A diet that is high in fibre (unlimited access to hay) and moderate on veg will help. Any gassy veg like cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower leaves should only be introduced slowly and fed as part of a mix, so the guts can adapt to process them and you won't have normally any issues. Unfortunately, cabbages are also the best source of magnesium, which is important for long term health, which is why recommend to feed a 1 inch strip of spring greens daily.
Ill and older guinea pigs can develop issues with their digestive system. Always take off fresh veg, especially brassicas, if there are problems and introduce them only very slowly again at least 24-48 hours after things have stabilised again.
Despite all your precautions, severe bloat can hit right out of the blue. Treat it as an absolute emergency if you find a piggy bloating up, especially if the belly is tight in places or overall and see a vet at any time of the day; he needs to decide whether you are dealing with bloat or a blockage (needs different treatment).
Have a vibrating device like an electric toothbrush or a vibrating car seat cover etc. at home to help shift the gas in addition to the meds you get from your vet.
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