Overheated Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs can't tolerate temperatures over 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and can easily get a heat stroke and die. Heat stroke IS treatable if recognized early. If your guinea pig does get overheated, here are some tips on what to do and how to help your pig and possibly save his/her life.

Signs that your guinea pig is overheated:

• Listless/Weak

• Slobbering

• Panting

• Lying flat on belly

• Breathing shallow

What to do if your pig is overheated:

• Wrap guinea pig in cool soaked towel or get a bucket of cool water and sponge guinea pig down or spray pig with water.
  *Do not bathe your guinea pig. This can shock his systems more and cause him to die.*

• Have a fan placed in front of guinea pig on high power.

• Have rubbing alcohol applied onto footpads.

•  Give fresh, cold romaine lettuce, melon or cucumber, as they contain moisture.

• If the pig is unable to drink water on it's own, provide it using syringe or eyedropper.

• In severe cases, once first aid is completed, guinea pig should see a vet immediately.