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Tickle spot and mites concern

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VeggieChompers

VeggieChompers

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Hi all!
My two boars Guinness and Rumplewicks both have what I have started calling a "tickle spot". It's on their back legs. I think it's equally on both sides...when I lightly tickle there, they popcorn wildly, and squeak (maybe in annoyance?). Just today I was holding Guinness and he was acting very aggravated and kept itching/biting himself. The reason I brought up the tickle spot is because today it was EXTRA sensitive. I couldn't even touch him there without him FREAKING OUT; jumping away and squeaking. I looked all over him and his fur is sleek and shiny, and he's still eating fine. Does this sound like mites? Is it possible he's just itchy and I should give him his first bath?

Thanks!
VeggieChompers
Guinness and Rumplewicks
 
When pigs get mites, their 'tickle spots' are not really ticklish but hyper sensitive. Noah had it on his back when he had mites and it took a while to go away. It was uncomfortable for him.
It's normal for pigs to itch, but you can definitely tell if it's excessive. You can get certain shampoos to sooth dry itchy skin, from gorgeous guineas. However, if it is mites, an ivermectin shot or medical treatment is the better way to go as they are really irritating for the pigs and they can chew themselves to the point of drawing blood, which then hurts.
You shouldn't bath them more than every 4 - 6 weeks, really, because you risk drying their skin out.
 
Whats the skin like? Skin is usually a good indication, check on the back around the rump area. When you part the hair can you see anything on the hair strands? Usually if its mites you would notice the hair being loose and some hair loss. I've treat both mites and mange mites in the past and lice and all start with being itchy but normally on the back. If i was you i would get some insecticidal shampoo for guinea pigs as a bath won't hurt them, see if the itching improves any. If it continues and your worried i would talk to your vet :)
 
Hi all! Sorry for the delay.
I watched him closely and while he does seem a little itchy, his skin and fur look fine, and his tickle spot is not seemingly painful at all. Now his fur is sticking up at weird angles and a little wet, like maybe he's been itching with his mouth, but still his skin and fur look fine. I am contemplating a spring check up and a bath for them both....
Thanks for your help!

VeggieChompers
Guinness and Rumplewicks
 
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