Worms in guinea pigs

Endoparasites, which include, in particular, worms, in guinea pigs are not so easy to detect and eliminate.

Worms lead a parasitic lifestyle in the body of an animal. Undoubtedly, their presence is harmful to animals, since the worms absorb nutrients and can cause exhaustion of the body. All worms in the course of their life emit toxic substances, which causes intoxication of the animal organism.

Tapeworms (tapeworms), tapeworms and liver fluke are the most common internal parasites of guinea pigs. Their presence can be manifested in weight loss and a change in the type of feces of the animal. The feces of a healthy pig are dry and oval in shape. Depending on the food consumed, their color varies – from brown to green and even orange (after eating carrots). However, the presence of certain parasites can only be detected by a veterinarian on the basis of a special study of blood or stool tests.

Tapeworms live in the intestines, they look like a narrow ribbon, consisting of individual segments and tapering to one end, on which the head with suckers is located. The further the joint is from the head, the more mature it is. When the testicles ripen in it, it comes off and is excreted with feces into the external environment. Embryos come out of the testicles of the segment that is eaten by the animal. They pierce the intestinal wall, enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. In various internal organs or in the brain of an animal, a cyst can form, where the embryos of worms are located, which are very dangerous for humans. 

Roundworms come in many varieties. Some of them look like thin threads of whitish and pinkish color, they live more often in the intestines, sometimes in the liver and lungs. When animals defecate, mature testicles are released into the external environment. Infection occurs when animals eat them with food; Contact with these animals can also infect humans. 

If any worms are found, it is necessary to contact a veterinarian who prescribes treatment.

With ascariasis, a good result is the use of piperazine (as prescribed by a doctor). Personal hygiene must be strictly observed. 

In general, it can be said that the danger of invasion of internal parasites is negligible if the pig’s cage is kept clean, and the quality of the food given to the pig is impeccable.

Regarding the prevention of worms in guinea pigs, there is no consensus among breeders.

One part of the experts believes that it is necessary to regularly carry out preventive treatment of pigs from worms in the same way as it is done with other pets (cats, dogs, etc.) Preparations for the treatment and prevention of helminths – Stronghold, Prazitsid, Dirofen, etc. For guinea pigs, it is permissible to use drugs of this group intended for kittens, taking into account the dosage by weight.

Other breeders believe that since worms in guinea pigs are rare, then there is no need to stuff animals with unnecessary chemicals, and these drugs should only be used as directed by a veterinarian.

Everyone decides for himself which side he is on 🙂