Fleas!

[CaliGirl]

Ok so I have been noticing my guinea pig scratching itself a lot since I first got it (tuesday). Today I found a flea on my leg, we haven't had fleas at my house for years so Im guessing its from my new guinea pig. But my guinea pig is black and I can't exacly see them on him when I go through his fur. I found this flea and tick spray at petco. I was wondering if anyone has every used something like it for fleas, or know of a better way to get rid of them. Should I go to the vet? Its not mites or anything really serious.

[Treen]

I'd avoid any spray/ power available from pet shops - it's simply not a good idea at all to douse a small grooming animal in chemicals and pesticides. There are much safer methods of treatment available from your vet (I believe Advantage is good for fleas).

I'd definitely see the vet anyway - simply so you can be sure you're treating for the right thing, and get advice on any necessary precuations you may need to take to make sure the offending bugs are completely removed from your home. If you find one of the bugs in the meantime, take it with you (dead or alive) to help identification!

Post at Guinea Lynx for advice on treatments http://www.guinealynx.info/forums/main.php - this forum is really just for cage related information and you'll get great advice on medical matters over there.

Good luck.