Nail pointing sideways

[ricmas]

Hi all

I've had my Guinea Pigs for a couple of months now and I have just noticed that Chewie has a nail on his front left paw that points sideways, 90 degrees to normal. His toe does look a little swollen as well. Anyone seen this before or have any advice to give me?

Thanks
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[Laura-CCC4]

Hi ricmas,

Could you post a picture, it may help others identify if it's something their piggies have and may help others suggest whether it could be normal or not?

It's normal for older piggies to have thick, twisted nails but unusual in younger piggies. However, the nails on the outside toes of each front foot can curl inwards pretty much regardless of the piggies age.

 

[ricmas]

Thanks Laura, will take a pic now and post it

 

[Wiebke]

Sideways nails on front paws are not unusual, especially if they are the outer ones. Twisted nails are sign of guinea pigs getting older, although some piggies can start earlier (or have naturally) twisting nails than others.

Does the toe look the same as its counterpart on the other side? I had the same feeling when I noticed a twisted nail for the first time, only to see that the other foot was looking exactly the same!

Or is the toe much redder and swollen compared to the others?

 

[ricmas]

Here is a picture, sorry it's not that clear

 

[Wiebke]

I am sorry, I really can't say from your picture.

Please check whether the nail is loose or much thicker than others - that could indicate a nail break recently or in the past.

Please compare the tow on the right paw with the same on the left and see whether there is a difference. If there isn't then there is nothing you have to worry about; otherwise I would show it to a vet.

 

[Laura-CCC4]

I can kinda see what you mean, second toe from right. I agree with Wiebke, check if it's loose and if you're just not sure, best just have it checked by a vet.