A guinea pig's system is a very delicate balance.  If a piggy stops eating, it can become a serious health issues very quickly.  There are a number of reasons why a pig may stop eating.  If he does, review this list to see if any of these might be the problem.  In Part 1, we discussed changes in diet, lack of water, aggressive cage mates, and dental problems as reason why a guinea pig may stop.  The list, however, is much longer.

• Pain:  When an individual is in pain it can have an effect on appetite.  Think back to last time you were in a lot of pain.  Were you hungry?  The same is true for our cavy friends.  If they suddenly stop eating, it could be an indication of an injury.  Loss of appetite, along with lethargy, can be signs of a medical condition.
• Infectious diseases:  Along the same line as pain, illness can be a cause of appetite loss, even if the condition does not involve the digestive tract.  Pneumonia and other respiratory infections, for example can decrease your piggy’s interest in food.
• Loss of a cage mate:  Believe it or not, guinea pigs will grieve the loss of a friend.  They are very social animals, and when they suddenly find themselves alone it can be traumatic.  A pig in mourning may become depressed, lethargic, and refuse to eat.  As with humans, some piggies adjust more easily than others.  If your pig has stopped eating and has just lost his or her cage mate, consider moving the survivor to a new location in a more high traffic area.  Changing the layout of the cage and/or playpen may help distract him or her and give the spirit a boost.  Or even consider adopting a new friend for him.
• Equipment problems:  Check to see that everything in your pig’s cage is functioning.  If he’s not drinking very much, check to see if the feeding tube on the water bottle is clear.  The tube can get clogged, making it harder for the pig to get water.  Dehydration can result, causing a loss of appetite.  Similarly a broken feeder can make it difficult to get the food.  So while it may appear that the pig lost his appetite, in fact he may be hungery but not successful at getting access to his dinner.

The treatment for your guinea pig depends on determining why he lost his appetite in the first place.  This lists not all inclusive, but will at least get you started thinking about it.  A careful examination of your pig and his cage may give you vital clues to determine what is happening to your fuzzy friend.  Examine him from head to toe, look in and around his cage, and think about any possible changes that could be affecting his mood.  If the cause does seem to medical, make sure to contact a veterinarian.  Remember, that not all vets are created equal.  All vets know how to treat cats and dogs, but far fewer know about exotic pets, such as guinea pigs and rabbits.  Be certain that the vet you choose knows what he or she is doing.  Piggies are small and vulnerable, especially when they are already sick.  It can be very easy to give an accidental overdose of medication or anesthesia.  This article has a list of knowledgeable vets in the state of Connecticut.  If you are still unsure, contact me at examinerbeth@yahoo.comwith your questions.  I can then contact Cindy from the Critter Connection, in Durham and see if I can get you the answer you seek. 

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