How should I bathe my guinea pig?

May 2021 4 2 Report

How should I bathe my guinea pig?

He's stinky, dirty, oily, and has chips tucked into his fur. Plus he's losing hair a lot. I think he had mange mites before, because he had a patch of hair completely gone but now it's just recovered and well. And he stopped making those vibrating noise when I pet them. What kind of soap should I use to bathe him?

Update:

And yes I know that I shouldn't bathe my guinea pig regularly, as he would lose his oils. But basically I just want to have him nice and clean, and plus make sure he doesn't get so dry.

Pets / Rodents

Nibbles

Verified answer

Firstly, you should be washing his grease glad regularly. Use a mild baby animal shampoo or baby shampoo. Put a wash cloth into the bottom of the sink or a basin so he doesn't slide around. Use warm water in cups to pour over his back and belly as you support him with the other hand. Use a damp cloth for his head. Do not pour water over his head!

My pig had gotten a small bald spot near his grease glad from the hair getting matted from a build up of grease. You may treat for mites, but you may also be experiencing the same as I did. If mats of hair can not be washed and brushed out, you can carefully cut them off.

You may need to reconsider the type of bedding you use and how often you clean the cage!

Justified

If you think he had mites before and never treated him, you should go ahead & do so. Ivermectin is the treatment of choice. See a vet.

As for bathing, use a shampoo that is labeled for use with small animals. This video helps alot.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJ7u_zp7BVs

Be SURE your piggie is dry before putting him back in the cage. Keep the cage out of any drafty areas.

pupgranny

You can wash him with mild baby shampoo. Just make sure to blow dry well, and keep him warm. Obviously don't do it more than once ever 2 weeks... Show piggies get baths...

Be sure he's treated with ivermectin regularly, like monthly so he doesn't have mites.