Mites

[Anna_Beatrice]

I was giving one of my piggy’s a bath and I noticed she had little black specks on her. I read that they could be mites. I have two other piggy’s so I’m wondering if she does have them if the other two could have them as well. Also how do you treat mites?

 

[VickiA]

There are different sorts of mites - burrowing mites and mange mites. There are also “hay mites” that are actually static lice and there are running lice.
We don’t recommend treating anything yourself without a diagnosis from a vet as you need to get the correct treatment for the correct problem and not treat on spec with OTC medications which are rarely strong enough to do the job properly.

 

[Betsy]

If your vet says she has mites you will need to treat all your Piggies to get rid of the all.

 

[ExLibris81]

I think my piggies may have mites - a bit of compulsive scratching and now Charlie has a sore on his back. Taking them to the vets tomorrow morning, but I wondered if there is anything I can do to ease any discomfort in the meantime as I hate feeling powerless to help - suggestions welcome!

Also, they have GuineaDad fleece bedding - what’s the best course of action regarding cleaning fleece if it does turn out to be mites as I suspect? Wondering if soaking in F10 solution before washing would be good - loathe to chuck it out or wash at high temperature which could make it shrink!

 

[DM030819]

@ExLibris81 If they're regular fleece then you can wash them at a higher temperature. If not, then I'd soak them in F10 first, and wash with a good amount of white vinegar.

 

[Bill & Ted]

You can place fleece type bedding in the freezer for 48 hours, this kills fleas, lice and eggs. PLace fabric in large plastic bag seal and place into freezer