On the 1st of June, one of our Vets saw Minnie, a very cute guinea pig. She had been suffering with blood in her urine (haematuria) for the past few days. She had suffered from the same problem last year. Originally it was treated with antibiotics, but because it had recurred again this year, she was in pain, and she had lost weight. Our Vet decided to investigate her clinical signs further.

She was admitted for X-rays of her abdomen as the Vet thought she may have bladder stones.

Guinea pigs are prone to bladder stones (Uroliths) and, as well as being painful, they can become life threatening to our furry little friends if they get stuck in the urethra.

Minnie came in for the day and brought her companion with her to reduce any stress. Her owner also brought her tunnel so she could easily hide, her own water bottle, and her normal fresh and dry food; all designed to minimise stress and make her feel at home.

It is worth mentioning that Guinea pigs need vitamin C supplemented in their diet.  It is a good idea to use a supplement in their food or water. If you are putting it in water, it needs to be covered to protect it from sunlight and changed daily. This is the same with food that already has vitamin C in it. As vitamin C is broken down by light, the food must be covered. 

Under a general anaesthetic, X-rays were taken of Minnie’s abdomen in several positions to make sure any stones could be easily seen in the bladder. Luckily, no stones were found, however her bladder did have sludge in it, so it is possible that she had already passed any stones in her urine. Unfortunately, her bladder was too small to obtain a urine sample. To collect a urine sample, the Vet would insert a needle directly into the bladder, this is called cystocentesis.

Our Vet decided Minnie needed to increase her water intake and exercise, but reduce things like kale, spinach, parsley, dandelions, and dill as these are high in calcium. It is also better to feed her Timothy Hay instead of Alfalfa, as Alfalfa is richer and higher in calcium, which is not good for adult Guinea pigs with the potential to form crystals in their urine.

When Minnie left for home, she went home with pain relief, and we made sure her owner was aware of how important it was that she was eating and defecating. 

Since her X-rays Minnie is doing very well and has had no more blood in her urine.

If this case study has raised any concerns, don’t hesitate to call us on 01665 252 250.