Poor Piggy (Kidney stone/Tumor)

[Perky]

Hi,

Weve had our pig, dale, for 5 years. We recently spotted a patch or 2 of blood on our fleece liner about 2 months ago and dale was drinking a lot more water. We narrowed it down to him and took him to the vets. Turns out he has a kidney stone/tumor just after his kidneys. and with his age, we decided to not risk an operation.

We just changed him and noticed 3 more patches of blood after not seeing any since the vets visit. He doesn’t seem to be in any pain… still being a menace, climbing the cage for veg etc. We are off to Japan for 3 weeks, next week, and they are living with my mum for the duration. Shes very vigilant but even with warning her of things to look out for… she isnt us.

As its our first pigs we are looking for any advice from anyone who’s been through it…

How fast will he go downhill?
Are there any other signs of pain expect behavior changes, squeaks or teeth chattering?
What major warning signs should we look out for?
Is it better to say goodbye before we leave and hope he hangs on till we get back?

Sorry for all the questions, just not sure what to do

Thanks!

 

[Ramia]

I think Dale should be on a pain killer for precaution so maybe talk to your vet.

 

[Perky]

I think Dale should be on a pain killer for precaution so maybe talk to your vet.

He was on metacam but once that ran out they just said to keep an eye on him

 

[Merab]

I would suggest a vet visit before you go to Japan to seek guidance.
It’s impossible to tell how long he has left and it’s hard for you knowing that he’s in your mum’s care while you’re away.
Conversation with her to decide possible actions if needed may also give you both peace of mind.
Holding you in my thoughts

 

[Piggies&buns]

I’m sorry to hear this.

I would also agree that seeing the vet before you leave would be a good idea.

If he was my pig, I would want him on daily pain meds.
I’ll add in the signs of pain guide other signs are sitting fluffed up, losing weight due to pain causing reduction/lack of appetite.

Signs of Pain in Guinea Pigs

 

[piggieminder]

I am sorry you and your piggy are going through this.
As well as getting him vet checked before you go I would let the vet know your Mum has your permission to make decisions while you are away. It would also be a good idea to give her a letter giving permission for her to make decisions on your behalf in case she comes up against any difficulty with a vet.

 

[Merab]

I am sorry you and your piggy are going through this.
As well as getting him vet checked before you go I would let the vet know your Mum has your permission to make decisions while you are away. It would also be a good idea to give her a letter giving permission for her to make decisions on your behalf in case she comes up against any difficulty with a vet.

That’s a good idea