Veterinary care of guinea pigs. Part 1: husbandry, stabilisation and diagnostics

Guinea pigs (Cavea porcellus) are popular pets within the UK. Owner expectations regarding advice and treatment for this species is increasing, and they may be presented to the veterinary clinic both for routine health checks and for treatment of illnesses. Husbandry should be based on their natural history, including their social requirements, temperature requirements, and grass or hay-based diet. Being prey species, they often hide signs of illness, so may present relatively late in a disease process. Early and aggressive supportive care is therefore essential.