Ringworm is one of the common infections experienced by guinea pigs. Unlike its name, ringworm infection has nothing to do with a parasitic worm. Instead it is caused by a fungus, named Trichophyton mentagrophytes, which is also clinically referred as ringworm.
This ringworm infection is typically characterized by bald patches starting from the head. Patches might also appear around the nose, ears and eyes, and spread to the back. This is a contagious infection and can be spread from an infected guinea pig to another.
As this is a common infection, it does not mean that you can take it easy. As a guinea pig parents, you need to know and be familiar with the causes, symptoms and treatment of ringworm. Being familiar with this infection will prevent your guinea pig from worsen conditions.
So, let’s get to know more about ringworms in guinea pigs.
As mentioned before, ringworm in guinea pig is caused by a family of fungus. This infection can be communicable between guinea pigs, through the contact with the infected ones.
The spread is commonly done by touching the contaminated objects, such as the bedding or the objects in the cage. Surprisingly, this infection can also be transmitted to humans, so pay extra attention and care while handling an infected guinea pig.
Find the great ideas for your guinea piggy bedding, including the materials to choose and the do’s and don’ts.
The major sign of ringworm in guinea pigs is bald patches on their body. The bald patches usually starts from the head, then they might also spread to the area of the nose, ears, around the eyes and to the back of the body. The patches are usually red and flaky.
Another symptom might be itching and scratching. The bald patches may be the result of the guinea pigs keep scratching because of feeling itchy. Regarding to skin, you may also want to find out the best shampoos for guinea pig. Some shampoos might cause irritation, so choosing the best shampoo for your guinea pig is also important.
Once you notice these symptoms, call your vet for some advice or for some health check, especially when you notice that your guinea pig starts scratching excessively.
After you see the symptoms, then you may want to seek for the ways to treat ringworm in guinea pig. Here are the steps you can do as the treatment of ringworm in guinea pigs:
While handling the infected guinea pigs, make sure you equip yourself with some protection. Ringworm from guinea pigs might be transmitted to humans.
Wear gloves while handling anything in the cage. Wash hands after holding your guinea pigs. Do not ever hold your guinea pig close to your mouth.
Handling a guinea pig is fun and challenging. You might want to find some advice about guinea pig, such as the tips on getting rid of fleas on guinea pigs and guinea pig bath: how to clean them properly.
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