Princess the Guinea pig was admitted to hospital over the weekend for a severe respiratory infection.
Pneumonia is one of the most common diseases seen in Guinea pigs, rats and mice and can be caused by different types of bacteria such as Bordetella and Streptococcus. They can be carriers of this bacteria for the duration of their lives without showing any symptoms, however other illnesses, stress and pregnancy can increase the chance of an infection developing.
Symptoms include loss of appetite, dehydration, weight loss, lethargy, trouble breathing, sneezing, coughing and discharge from the mouth, nose and eyes. If any of these symptoms develop they should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment.
Princess is feeling much better after spending the weekend with Dr Vanessa for intensive treatment of her infection.