Woody

[rblily]

Hi guys. My 4 year old boar, Woody, was recently dropped (as of 2 days ago) by my boyfriend from about 35cm in height (it was as a reflex from him as Woody was trying to bite him). He landed on cushioning and has been running and wheeking as usual since this incident. However, we have recently noticed that woody has a slight incosistent limp and while holding him, we have noticed that one of his back legs dont feel like the other - one of his legs (near his bum) feels swollen and warm - like a lump is there - while the other feels normal. I haven't weighed him yet as a new scale is arriving tomorrow, but he is still eating pellets, hay, and vegetables as normal.

The thing is, I dont know if this 'limping' is him actually limping, or if it's just how he runs? It looks like a jump more than a limp, but I've never seen a guinea pig limp before so it could be one. I can try and record a video of it and link it if he starts again.

Does anyone know what could be going on/have any other recommendations on what to look out for?

 

[fluffysal]

Personally I would get him vet checked as soon as possible. You mention possible swelling in one leg, hopefully he's just a bit sore and bruised but you will be able to get some pain relief for him and peace of mind for yourself.

 

[Pantalaimon]

I agree with fluffysal, I would absolutely get him checked by a guinea pig savvy vet. It’s good that you’ve picked up on these subtle symptoms and is best to get them checked before they have the chance to worsen.

I notice your location says Cornwall, I am also in Cornwall and know there are not many known guinea pig/exotics vets around. If you haven’t already found a vet, I can strongly recommend one at Penbode vets in Stratton, exotics vet Pascual Medina. He has treated my pigs and other creatures for a few years now and his attitude towards them is excellent, though I have had unfortunate experiences with other vets at this location they allow you to request a specific vet when booking.

 

[rblily]

I agree with fluffysal, I would absolutely get him checked by a guinea pig savvy vet. It’s good that you’ve picked up on these subtle symptoms and is best to get them checked before they have the chance to worsen.

I notice your location says Cornwall, I am also in Cornwall and know there are not many known guinea pig/exotics vets around. If you haven’t already found a vet, I can strongly recommend one at Penbode vets in Stratton, exotics vet Pascual Medina. He has treated my pigs and other creatures for a few years now and his attitude towards them is excellent, though I have had unfortunate experiences with other vets at this location they allow you to request a specific vet when booking.

Thank you so much. @Bill & Ted has also recommended to me Rosemullion Vets in Falmouth. Thank you for the advice and vet locations

 

[rblily]

Hi guys. It's not possible for me to take Woody to the vets until tuesday. He seems to be in alot of pain, not walking around or eating and he is losing weight gradually. In order to maybe get him to eat something I was thinking of administering some medication I got from the vet a couple weeks ago for my other pig, Beep, which is a painkiller and an anti-inflammatory. I can also try and see if I can buy some critical care and administer that to him but I dont want him to be in pain. Can I get someone else's views on this please.

 

[Piggies&buns]

I’m sorry to hear this.
I’m afraid he needs to see a vet. It’s really not something that can wait any longer, certainly can’t wait until Tuesday, as he is showing signs of distress. Is there somebody else who can take him for you?

He is losing weight because he isn’t eating hay, and yes pain can cause that, but giving him pain meds without seeing a vet isn’t something we can advise. Equally giving pain meds won’t necessarily mean he will start eating.
As he had a fall, it’s also possible there is an injury internally somewhere in his body including to his mouth.

In the absence of critical care, you need to mush pellets with water and syringe that to him.
A piggy not eating hay need a minimum of 60ml per day but daily weights are your guide as to how much he actually needs.

We cannot advise you to self medicate him. Dosages are based on weight and clinical need and it’s for the vet to decide what is appropriate.

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