How To

How to Stop a Guinea Pig From Shedding

By eHow Pets Editor
Rate: (10 Ratings)

Guinea pigs are lovely pets, but they can shed and leave your home in a mess. Follow these steps to prevent excessive shedding.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Metal greyhound comb

    Health Care

  1. Step 1

    Watch for signs of parasites. The most common guinea pig parasite is the mange mite. This mite can cause pain and shedding.

  2. Step 2

    Treat guinea pig parasites as soon as possible with Ivermectin to stop shedding.

  3. Step 3

    Check for signs of a fungal infection which also often cause shedding. Patchy, itchy areas of hair loss on the face are often the first sign of fungal infections.

  4. Step 4

    Prevent fungus infections (and the associated shedding) by treating infection-causing parasites promptly and keeping the humidity in the guinea pig's habitat low.

  5. Step 5

    Disinfect the guinea pig's habitat periodically. Fungus spores may be inactive for years and then become active without warning, causing shedding to reoccur.

  6. Step 6

    Visit your veterinarian for prompt diagnosis and treatment of any infection. This should also stop the shedding.

  7. Daily Care

  8. Step 1

    Brush your guinea pig with a metal greyhound comb daily to reduce shedding and remove loose hair.

  9. Step 2

    Include Vitamin C in your guinea pig's diet; 10 to 30 mg/kg per day is the most effective dosage for the prevention of shedding in the average guinea pig.

  10. Step 3

    Include sufficient protein in your guinea pig's diet. A diet less than 15 percent protein may cause shedding.

  11. Step 4

    Bathe your guinea pig once a month to prevent shedding. Place a small towel on the bottom of the sink (decrease slipperiness) and fill the sink with warm water. Using a gentle soap, wash your guinea pig and dry him with a soft towel.

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