Breathing

[emilylovesruth]

I noticed today that my guinea pig breathes with a little whistle. We live in a highly pollinated area, so perhaps she has allergies? I also think the shavings could be a tad sketchy. My mum believes that the hay is giving her these breathing whistles, but the hay is not dusty. Your thoughts?

[Jenni_Feathers]

The hay would not be doing, it is possible but not likely the shaving. Allergies are very rare in Guinea Pigs, they most commen reason for breathing sounds is URI's upper respitory infections. Does your piggy have any of the other symptoms listed here Guinea Lynx :: URI
Is it possible she is just talking????

[YuselinMaikel]

I noticed today that my guinea pig breathes with a little whistle. We live in a highly pollinated area, so perhaps she has allergies? I also think the shavings could be a tad sketchy. My mum believes that the hay is giving her these breathing whistles, but the hay is not dusty. Your thoughts?

Why don't you record your piggie's noise and try to post it here in any kind of way. Maybe experienced guinea pig owners may tell you what it is. My piggies make also funny sounds when playing or just for fun maybe is that? but any how try to record the piggie's noise so we can tell you what it is. In photobucket you can create videos you can post them here at the thread. Maybe that will help us identify your piggie's noise (my opinion). Hope everything is FINE.

[envisionary333]

Personally, I wouldn't risk waiting to see how things go, or getting the opinion of anyone who isn't an expert. Guinea pigs can go downhill fast, and URIs are very serious. Get to a qualified vet. If you can, get in right away- explain the situation and ask to be fit into the schedule. Most vets leave a little wiggle room for emergencies.

If you are using cedar or pine shavings, throw them out immediately. Aspen and kiln-dried pine are OK, Carefresh is great, and fleece is probably the absolute best as far as producing the least dust and keeping the air quality at its best. If you don't have any other bedding on hand at the moment, use blankets or newspaper until you do. Thoroughly clean the cage with water/vinegar, and try to clear the room of any remaining particles from the shavings. They are a serious health hazard.

Also, try to pay special attention to the air quality of the room your piggy lives in. Avoid adding anything to the air that could be a problem. Scented oils, candles, Febreeze, perfume, heavy-duty cleaners, cigarette smoke, mold, and most spray products really should be avoided around guinea pigs. Vinegar and water is the safest way to do cage cleanings, and it's very effective too.

I hope your piggy is doing better soon, and please keep us updated.