Salmonella

[HeatherRose]

My husband just sent me an article about people getting salmonella from their guinea pigs. Is this common? I used to be a teacher and we had guinea pigs as the class pet (and my pets in the summers) and everyone was fine. We have had this set of piggies since December and I kiss them all the time and my kids play with them and probably don’t wash their hands every time, but we have been fine. I’m assuming it is not common since you don’t hear about it much. My husband and his family are serious hypochondriacs so I’m sure his mom sent it to him!

 

[Wheekallweek]

It’s not something I’ve ever heard of, although I suppose it’s possible for certain things like ringworm to pass from piggies to humans!
As long as you’re being hygienic I wouldn’t worry

 

[Pawz]

You are far more likely to get salmonella from handling reptiles than you are a guinea pig. But even then the risks are not particularly high even with only moderate hand washing. I’ve actually not heard of guinea pigs carrying salmonella.

I’ve never heard of a case personally where anyone has contracted salmonella from a pet. Although obviously there are some out there.

I always wash my hands after handling animals, although there has been one or two times when something has distracted me and i’ve suddenly remembered later that I didn’t wash a hand the rats licked....while I am sat licking food off my fingers! I’m still here, didn’t get sick with anything from that mistake

 

[piggieminder]

I've had salmonella twice both times from eating out, never from a guinea pig!

 

[Eriathwen]

This was posted in one of the guinea pig facebook groups, must admit ive had guineas and reptiles over the best part of 2 decades and never been ill! Hand gel, hand washing, washing and preparing food properly etc..basically a minimal level of basic hygiene and youll be fine

 

[Merrypigs Sanctuary]

I had it once. Hadn't felt so ill for a long time

 

[Cavy Kung-Fu]

Although piggies can catch it it's fairly uncommon I believe. You're more likely to catch it from egg laying species such as chickens or reptiles. As mammals both ourselves and piggies have to come into contact with it first. That's why I'm always checking the ground for bird poo etc when putting the pigs out on the grass. Gotta be a bit careful if you have birds of any kind but as people have said, hygiene will help keep yourself and your piggies safe

 

[HeatherRose]

Thanks everyone. I assumed it was not a common thing. I will tell my husband’s family that I have consulted the guinea pig experts and there is really nothing to worry about! They are constantly coming up with crazy theories about things. I love them and we get along, they just get a little crazy sometimes, lol.