Infected Nailbed?

[Emmamarbry]

Hello. My guinea pig's name is Maci, she's probably about 2/2and a half years old now. I've never taken her to the vet because she's always been healthy and never had any problems. I cut her nails about every 2-3 weeks and they've never outgrown, ripped off, etc. I haven't made her nails bleed and I have never seen any type of injury on any of her feet or nails. I would consider myself a good nail clipper. Anyways, a few days ago I've noticed on her front right paw her last toenail has gotten really thick and black. The foot itself does not look swollen or feel hot to the touch. The nail looks like it has a lot of bacteria underneath, and I was thinking maybe it's just some hardened residue, so I tried cleaning and soaking it but it's not changing. I noticed when it I cut her nails so I don't know how long she's had this for. It doesnt seem like she's in any pain, I tried cutting it down a little because it was pretty curled and long, but it's too hard to cut and she squeals every time I try. If anyone would like to give help/advice/etc. it'd be gladly appreciated, I plan on taking her to the vet if it does not go away. Thanks for the read!

 

[Betsy]

I would take her to the vet to find out what the cause is. It does not look normal. You are lucky to have had her for such a long time and avoided the vets.

 

[Wheekallweek]

Hmmm, it almost looks bruised, or like the toe has been damaged and caused the nail to grow malformed?
Either way it’s best for a vet to check it out, especially if she squeals when you try to cut it; it may be hurting her.
Good luck!

 

[gizzy]

Tamodine , Dab tamodine on the affected area

 

[gizzy]

Tamodine

 

[Lady Kelly]

Tamodine

Have you had this recommended by a vet? It concerns me that it says suitable for reptiles but not for amphibians because they can absorb it through the skin. Mammals can also absorb through the skin which would lead me to believe that this product is not suitable.

In any case, whether this product is suitable or not the recommendation of the forum will be not to treat conditions at home without first seeking medical advice from a vet

 

[Betsy]

 

[Tiamolly123]

Hi & welcome to our friendly forum.
I wonder whether for some reason her nail is dead & it will just fall off naturally.
Yes you do have to visit a vet I'm afraid if it is infected, it could spread, then
& you could end up with a very poorly piggy.
Let us know how you got on at the vets!

 

[Emmamarbry]

Thanks to all for the help! I've decided it would be best if I took her to the vet just to make sure nothing is wrong. Will be updating after the visit!

 

[Julie M]

I think you could be right it looks like a nailbed infection. My dog has had one previously although his was more a brown colour. Hope your little one is feeling better soon and hope vets goes ok.