Senior Guinea Pigs, What To Think About As They Get Older.
Like 3 Dislike 0 Published on 29 Dec 2013
Happy Birthday Barnaby, he is 4 years old now!!
As guinea pigs age, like people, they are prone to arthritis. Some piggies can tolerate the mild pain but if it gets more severe it can really make life uncomfortable and hard for them. If your guinea pig is experiencing pain, please take them to a cavy savy vet for a proper diagnosis and pain management.
Barnaby is on low dose metacam once a day, everyday for life. Off pain meds he is depressed and finds it hard to move or sleep.
Things you need to consider for pigs 3-4 years old and on:
1. Is the cage a good size? Space is still important but if your pig is having a hard time getting around, reducing the cage size a bit will help. Say from a 2by5 cage down to a 2by3 or 2by4.
2. Is the cage one level? Multi levels for an older piggy are not appropriate, it can really take a toll on their joints.
3. Is food and water easy to get at? Never have food and water on a top level of a cage, always make it easy to get to and at a comfortable height.
4. Is the cage comfy? Maybe add more layers of bedding and more cozy beds.
5. Is the room warm? Warmth is important when you have arthritis, the cold can cause it to flare up.
Oxbow Tablets are a great thing to include in a senior piggies diet. I like to use the Urinary Support tablets, they have glucosamine in them, which is great for joint health.
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