2007-01-19 10:45:59 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
They may have Pododermatitis (Bumblefoot) http://www.guinealynx.com/images/bumblefoot.jpg
Bacterial Pododermatitis (Footpad Infection)
Severe infections of the footpads are very common among guinea pigs housed in cages with wire flooring. Fecal soiling of the wire potentiates the problem. The guinea pig's front feet are most vulnerable to this condition.
Symptoms of this condition include swelling of the affected feet, lameness, and reluctancy to move. Improved sanitation and cage floor alterations are the initial steps in correcting the problem. In addition, the feet themselves should be treated by a veterinarian. Topical dressing with an antibiotic and periodic bandaging is often required. Depending on the severity of the damage, injectable antibiotics may also be necessary . Therapy may have to be carried out for a lengthy period of time to get full recovery. Unfortunately, a consequence of this condition is arthritis.
This website will tell you all you need to know http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=18&cat=1800&articleid=3066
If you think it is not bumble foot then you may want to try rubbing tripple antibiotic creme on their foot pads this will promote the heeling of roughness and cracks.
good luck !
2007-01-19 13:52:55 · answer #1 · answered by catieann 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wow, I've not see this myself. But I instantly wondered if you've got them on a wire bottom cage. If so, you've got to cover that up immediately! Their feet can can be damaged, toenails could get caught and torn off, and more.
You can put newspaper and bedding on top of a wire bottom cage, or try taking the wire out completely, then put paper and bedding on bottom of cage. Good luck!!
2007-01-19 18:37:49 · answer #2 · answered by wedygli 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not usually a big problem unless its flaking or cracking, though it is uncomfortable. Use vitamin E cream, scent free, colour free. You could try vasoline (a LITTLE) if he'll let you rub that long.
2007-01-19 10:52:22 · answer #3 · answered by Noota Oolah 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I was always told to have a flat bottom cage (not a wire mesh bottom where the droppings fall thru.) If you have the wire mesh bottom cage....maybe that's the problem.
Otherwise...I have no idea. Sorry.
2007-01-19 10:55:20 · answer #4 · answered by Dixie Dingo 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't really know mine has that to.
2007-01-19 10:52:19 · answer #5 · answered by HIPPO 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋