Why is my guinea pig losing hair?

Answer by  patricia42256 (22)

Guinea pig loosing its hair is a pretty common problem and could be many things. Causes could be a vitamin c deficiency, mites, fleas or other insects or just plain dry skin. He could also be chewing or scratching maybe from boredom. It could also be caused by a change in his diet.

Answer by  Molae06 (1467)

If the hair loss is occurring on her back or rear end, chances are she is doing it to herself by scratching or chewing. There could be mites or fleas bothering her, or possible a skin irritation like a rash. If there is a small mammal veterinarian located near you, they will be able to give you more information.

Answer by  traumatised (3285)

Most likely mites or a fungal infection, but could be diet or even pregnancy. Take your pig to an EXOTICS vet, who specialises in rodents, for a checkup.

Answer by  Mumma (483)

Diet might be a factor but you cannot know the cause for sure unless you take her to a good exotics-trained vet for a checkup.

Answer by  traumatised (3285)

Some shedding is normal, but if it is excessive it might be mites/fungal infection, pregnancy or even poor diet. Your best bet is to take her to an exotics vet (not an ordinary cat/dog one) for a checkup, which you should do at least once yearly anyway.

Answer by  traumatised (3285)

It is likely mites. Possibly diet. Get her to a QUALIFIED exotics vet (not one who only has experience with cats and dogs) as soon as possible for diagnosis/treatment options.

Answer by  traumatised (3285)

It is likely mites or a fungal infection (both treatable), and hair loss can also occur during pregnancy. Your best bet is to take her to an exotics vet (one who specializes in rodents - not an ordinary cat/dog vet) for a checkup to rule out anything serious.

Answer by  NurseB (513)

Are there other guinea-pigs in the cage that are fighting with it? Often guinea-pigs will nip at each others fur if the cage is too crowded. Try to increase oils in diet.. nuts, sunflower seeds this should help with the hair growing back. Also be sure fleas or overdried skin/rash is not causing the hair to fall out.