Sudden Hind Leg Paralysis - 730g Piggy "Xuanxuan" - Suspected Spinal Inflammation - Need Advice

[Leoson]

Hi everyone,

I’m seeking urgent advice for my guinea pig, Xuanxuan (male, weight 730g), who suddenly lost the use of his hind legs in the early morning of January 29th.

Symptoms:

• Sudden onset of hind limb paralysis.
• He can still use his left back leg to push against the floor slightly, but the right back leg is completely limp and weak.
• It has been 3 days now with no significant improvement in mobility.
  

Vet Diagnosis:

• We have seen a vet and performed X-rays. The X-rays show NO fractures.
• The vet suspects inflammation between the vertebrae (possible spondylitis or disc issue) causing nerve compression.
• A CT scan was suggested, but I am currently opting for conservative treatment due to the risks of general anesthesia.

Current Treatment Plan (3-day initial course):

• Meloxicam (Metacam): As a painkiller and anti-inflammatory.
• Vitamin Mixture (VC & VB): For nutritional support.
• Appetite: He is still eating and drinking normally (hay, pellets, and vegetables).
• General State: Bright and alert, but restricted by his lack of mobility.

I have attached two X-ray images and a video showing his movement.

I would really appreciate advice on:

1. Has anyone seen a similar case with these symptoms and a 730g piggy?
2. Besides Meloxicam, are there other medications or therapies (like laser therapy or specific vitamins) that helped your piggies recover nerve function?
3. How long does it typically take to see improvement with conservative treatment for spinal issues?

Thank you so much for your help!

 

[Merab]

Welcome to the forum.
Sorry that you are having such an anxious time with Xuanxuan
I can’t offer advice but want to assure you of my support

 

[Leoson]

Welcome to the forum.
Sorry that you are having such an anxious time with Xuanxuan
I can’t offer advice but want to assure you of my support

Thank you so much

 

[CTWC]

Morning I am sorry to hear this. Has there been any change?

 

[Wiebke]

Hi and welcome

Unfortunately, back leg paralysis very often does not revert instantly even when the medication works. All you can do is to continue with the course of medication and hope for the best.

I am very sorry that we cannot give better advice. We are an owners forum which offers support to owners during treatment but are not a medical forum. We all do this for free in our own free time.

Here are practical care tips on what you can do when looking after a guinea pig with mobility issues, including a form of back leg paralysis: Looking After Guinea Pigs With Limited or No Mobility

I am keeping my fingers crossed for you and your beloved little one.

 

[Leoson]

Morning I am sorry to hear this. Has there been any change?

Thank you so much for your concern, but there hasn't been a significant improvement yet.

 

[Leoson]

Hi and welcome

Unfortunately, back leg paralysis very often does not revert instantly even when the medication works. All you can do is to continue with the course of medication and hope for the best.

I am very sorry that we cannot give better advice. We are an owners forum which offers support to owners during treatment but are not a medical forum. We all do this for free in our own free time.

Here are practical care tips on what you can do when looking after a guinea pig with mobility issues, including a form of back leg paralysis: Looking After Guinea Pigs With Limited or No Mobility

I am keeping my fingers crossed for you and your beloved little one.

Thank you for your kindness. I have taken some measures according to your instructions. Thank you.

 

[Wiebke]

Thank you for your kindness. I have taken some measures according to your instructions. Thank you.

I hope that it helps. Loss of mobility is always so upsetting but hopefully our care tips can help you cope better.

We are always here for any questions you have and for moral support. We just cannot replace veterinary care.

 

[weepweeps]

Sending healing vibes to Xuanxuan. I don’t have any experience of this but I hope he starts to improve with the medication.

 

[Leoson]

祝愿轩轩早日康复。我没有这方面的经验，但我希望他服用药物后能有所好转。

thank you so much!I hope so

 

[Leoson]

希望这些建议对您有所帮助。行动不便总是令人沮丧，但希望我们的护理建议能帮助您更好地应对。

我们随时乐意解答您的任何疑问，并为您提供精神支持。但我们无法取代兽医的诊疗。

Thank you, I'm very grateful！

 

[Leoson]

She has a comminuted fracture of the spine, and I've already fitted her with a custom-made wheelchair, a heat lamp, and am administering methylcobalamin. The doctor says the situation isn't optimistic, but I still have hope!