Wet chin - neurotic mother or cause for concern

[hallie2985]

I've been a bit worried about Sooty over the past couple of days; there's been nothing overtly wrong, but I've had this niggling feeling that something isn't quite right.

I just got her out of the cage for bedtime cuddles and noticed she was wet under her chin. I thought perhaps it was from the recently washed lettuce she'd just eaten, and as bumble also had a slightly damp chin I told myself I was being stupid.

Then Sooty's chin wiped against the puppy pad, and the wet stuff is a brown colour. Bumble's chin is definitely water; I wiped it and it was clear.

I'm hoping to get an emergency vet appt tomorrow; my sister has agreed to drive me. I'm worried that Soots has either got dental issues or an abscess. Last time I had a pig with these issues I was 13. We didn't catch it early enough, and she had to be put to sleep.

I think Sooty is in a much better condition - she IS still eating, and although she's Not quite right, she's still bright eyed and interested (although she hasn't been running away when I've been getting her out).

Is there anything else I should do for her? Any advice gratefully received.

Thanks,
Hayley

 

[lily 74]

Hi Hayley,

I think you are doing everything you can, just make sure your vet is cavy savvy.

I noticed my gp was wet under the chin, but when I first noticed it hehad already lost some weight and he was an elderly gp. I took him to the vet who told me his teeth needed filing down under ga as they were overgrowing at the back.

He didn't use the right tools to look in his mouth and this sent alarm bells ringing for me so I took him to a rodentologist who said his back teeth were fine:{

Unfortunately even after syringe feeding to try to put weight back on etc he didn't make it. I think your piggie stands a good chance as younger and the cause found earlierxx

 

[flintstones]

Fred has had teeth problems - I noticed a decline in weight. My vet was able to give him a sedative and file his molars. That was 2 1/2 months ago.

He is 100% now and gaining weight.

 

[hallie2985]

My vet is the go-to-guy for small furries, so I'm confident she'll get good treatment. She's 4, so she's middle aged, but her health is good otherwise (except for a tendency to form crystals). I haven't weighed her recently (I suck), but she has not noticeably lost weight.

I'm glad I listened to my instincts and had her out again tonight, though!

 

[Freela]

I think it's a good idea to get it checked out by the vet, because dental issues are so much easier to treat when caught early. It's worth a check even just for your own peace of mind! Good luck with the vet!

 

[CandyFloss]

Good luck at the vets. My piggy Toffee had a wet chin when she had dental problems.
Let us know how you get on,
xx

 

[hallie2985]

Thanks, everyone!

Sooty and I saw the vet this morning. He was very thorough. She had a mouth full of food, so he was unable to visualise her teeth well; he said it may be that she has a very early dental issue, but the only way to see for sure would be to anaesthetise her and check. The other option is to monitor her weight and if it decreases then take her back. I went for the conservative option as there is no compelling evidence of a problem at this stage. In herself, Sooty is bright and happy; he even commented on how gorgeous and shiny her coat is!

I suspect I was being a trifle neurotic, but the peace of mind makes the vet's trip worth it!

 

[Glynis]

Nope not neurotic at all !!
You are being a lovely and caring mummy!
OK keep a strict eye on Sooty and even call and discuss with your vet........ as you know from experience piggies can hide their illnesses :{
Whee all cross paws and fingers that Sooty will be fine XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

p.s. trust Sooty to have a mouthful of greens rolleyesx) good Sooty for eating tho xoxo