I have 3 sick piggies....

[Goobius]

I have three pigs who seem to have symptoms of a 'cold' or possibly pneumonia.

I can hear them having problems breathing.

It sounds like the cold I have.
Conjested breathing, eyes slightly matted.
They are also lathargic, and not eating or drinking much.

I gave them all a mixture of sugar water with some ground up Vitamin C in it.
I also gave them extra hay, and parsley and carrots, and turned the heat up a little too.

Any other suggestions?
We are snowed in and taking them to the vet is not an option at this point.

Thomas
goobiusmaximus@hotmail.com
ICQ# 44197467

[Trin]

Almost certainly your pigs have URI's (upper respiratory infections) They need medication right away,as soon as you are able to get it. The one I used for my pig when she was sick was called Chlormephincol. Make sure when you do see a vet that he/she doesn't prescribe any penicillin based meds as they are toxic to guinea pigs. They do need mediaction though because they will almost definitely die without it, I'm sorry to report. Good luck.

[kailee]

Contrary to popular belief, guinea pigs do not catch colds; the cold and flu in humans are caused by viruses, but in guinea pigs, most respiratory problems are caused by bacteria. It is also possible to have a fungal infection in the nasal passages, but this is more rare.

good luck.