Strange Wheek, Changed.

[SkyexXx]

So my guinea pig Twix is just about to turn 5, she still a very happy and active guinea pig. There has been no change in her weight, appetite, mood, or behaviour. The only thing is tonight she's been Wheeking away and all was normal but when she tried to change pitch and go loud it just sounded quiet and breathy. I always have a close eye on Twix as her pal passed away recently and she has been completely fine other than this. Is this something to be concerned about or could it be an age thing? The only other thing I can add in regards to her health is a small cyst on her shoulder. But her vet and myself have monitored it and it's not grown and doesn't seem to bother her. In her last visit I was told she may be starting to develop ovarian cysts. He couldn't feel any obvious lumps but she doesn't like anyone touching her belly these days and is getting to that age. Any advice would be appreciated. She has regular check-ups and is due in for the 24th anyway. But should I get her in sooner? And second opinions help. The new vet seems great and well educated but I've had a few issues with the wrong vets and this forum is what ultimately helped me diagnose the last piggy illness we had.

 

[Wiebke]

Piggies can lose (or never have) a big wheek; they often just have a hoarse or breathy sounding wheek instead. Nothing to worry about.

 

[SkyexXx]

Thank you Wiebke, that's a relief to hear.

 

[Poppy'sMum]

I would mention it at the vet visit when you go & get the vet to check the cysts haven't grown too large. The only thing I can think of is that they have grown & may be causing pressure internally. Ovarian cysts are usually easily treated with hormone injections so I would just go to the appointment you've already booked

 

[SkyexXx]

Yeah I'll mention to him just to be safe. I'm getting a bit paranoid lately about potential health issues. But she actually likes this new vet. She usually kicks up a huge tantrum but she relaxes now, so regular check-ups don't bother her! Lol

 

[Wiebke]

So my guinea pig Twix is just about to turn 5, she still a very happy and active guinea pig. There has been no change in her weight, appetite, mood, or behaviour. The only thing is tonight she's been Wheeking away and all was normal but when she tried to change pitch and go loud it just sounded quiet and breathy. I always have a close eye on Twix as her pal passed away recently and she has been completely fine other than this. Is this something to be concerned about or could it be an age thing? The only other thing I can add in regards to her health is a small cyst on her shoulder. But her vet and myself have monitored it and it's not grown and doesn't seem to bother her. In her last visit I was told she may be starting to develop ovarian cysts. He couldn't feel any obvious lumps but she doesn't like anyone touching her belly these days and is getting to that age. Any advice would be appreciated. She has regular check-ups and is due in for the 24th anyway. But should I get her in sooner? And second opinions help. The new vet seems great and well educated but I've had a few issues with the wrong vets and this forum is what ultimately helped me diagnose the last piggy illness we had.

Just have the ovarian cysts checked on your regular appointment. There is a the alternative to use hormone injections (chorulon) instead of a spay these days if your vet feels that they need treatment. Ovarian cysts are pretty common in older sows.

 

[SkyexXx]

Yeah he said it was very common and we check in regularly. But that's good to know, I'm always wary about them going under the knife. I know the anaesthetic is risky for them.