Ears
There are two relatively common complaints seen in the ears
of guinea pigs. One is parasitic infestation and the other
is bacterial infection of the inner ear.
The behavioural symptoms of parasitic infestation are frantic
scratching of the ear and head shaking. Upon examination of
the ear there is either much wax in it, which of course attracts
the parasites, or the skin is very dry and scurfy. If it is
not treated the parasites quickly extend their territory to
the other ear.
One of the best treatments for this is Otodex eardrops, formulated
for use upon cats and dogs but perfectly safe and effective
for guinea pigs.
Towel wrap the guinea pig and if there is wax in the ear
clean out as much as you can with a cotton bud, put a few
drops of Otodex into the ear then massage at the base of the
ear. Do this a couple of times a day for about three days,
it seldom takes longer than that to clear the problem up.
Infections of the inner ear are indicated by the guinea pig
inclining it's head to one side. When the ear is firmly palpated
the guinea pig will usually flinch the closer you get the
base of the ear. There may even be puss inside the ear and
if there isn't, quite often there is the odour of it. There
are a few prescription only antibiotic drops that can deal
with these infections quite easily and it is important that
it is treated as soon as possible so a visit to a vet will
be necessary.
Keeping the ears clean and wax free will help to avoid ear
problems. The most effective dewaxing solution is Dermisol
fluid.
