Foot sores, also known as bumblefoot, are a common problem in guinea pigs.The sores can be caused by a cut on the bottom of a guinea pig's foot.If left unattended, foot sores can lead to serious health problems and can be very painful for a guinea pig.The sooner you can see the sores on your pig's foot, the better.
Step 1: The guinea pig is walking.
The front feet of guinea pigs are affected by foot sores.Your guinea pig will favor one foot over the other if it has foot sores.
Step 2: Listen to your pig as he walks.
Your guinea pig will suffer from foot sores.If your pig can walk, you can hear its pain.
Step 3: It's a good idea to cock your pig to walk.
Your guinea pig may not want to walk around in its cage because of the painful foot sores.You can put some treats in your hand.If it comes to you, lower your hand into its cage.If you keep your guinea pig where it is, it could hurt it's feet to put pressure on them.Do not try again if it doesn't come to you after the first try.
Step 4: Keep an eye on your guinea pig's appetite.
If his foot sores are bothering him, he may stop eating.It could be that it can't get to its food anymore because of the pain.A decrease in appetite may cause your guinea pig to lose weight.
Step 5: When examining a pig's feet, be gentle.
The feet of a guinea pig are very painful.A small touch of the feet could cause your pig to cry out in pain.When you look at the feet, consider using a soft and soothing voice.
Step 6: You can feel the skin on the pig's feet.
There is a light pink color on the skin of a guinea pig foot.The skin on your guinea pig's feet will feel rough.Some of the skin may be from scabs.It is possible that the skin feels warm to the touch.The foot won't have pink skin.The skin is likely to be dark.
Step 7: Check the feet of your pig.
There are cuts and scratches on the bottom of the foot.You may see open wounds.The yellow- or green-colored fluid may be draining from these ulcers.The ulcers can be up to 3 cm in diameter.If your guinea pig has a severe case of foot sores, you would also see abscesses, which are closed wounds that are filled with pus.Abscesses are indicators of an illness.
Step 8: Look for swelling and redness.
As painful as your guinea pig's foot sores may be, they are its own natural response to an injury or illness.The foot sores are likely to be red and swollen.The joints of the guinea pig may start swelling if the bacteria has entered his foot.Pododermatitis is inflammation of the foot.
Step 9: Take your pet to the doctor.
Take your guinea pig to the vet if he has foot sores.Provide as much information as you can during the appointment.A lack of vitamins C and wire flooring are some of the risk factors for foot sores.Tell me about the type of bedding in the cage.Rough bedding, such as awns and straws, can damage the skin on your guinea pig's feet, increasing the likelihood of foot sores and infections.Obesity and a dirty cage are risk factors for foot sores.
Step 10: Your vet should be able to examine your pig.
Your vet will take a close look at the feet and legs of your guinea pig.Your vet will listen to the lungs and heart, touch your guinea pig from head to toe, and look in the eyes and ears when examining your pig's body.Your vet will look at the feet and legs for signs of inflammation, heat, swelling, and pain.
Step 11: Diagnostic tests should be performed by your vet.
Your vet will be able to determine the treatment for your guinea pig with the help of diagnostic tests.Antibiotics can make guinea pigs very sick, even though they are often used to treat foot sores.It is not possible for your vet to prescribe just any antibiotic.x-rays would need to be taken if the vet suspects the bacteria has entered the pig's bones.