Question of the Day

Pododermatitis is common in guinea pigs and Staphylococcus aureus is the typical causative agent. Risk factors include obesity, poor sanitation, and housing on wire or abrasive floors.

Clinical presentation is as seen in this patient. Chronic pododermatitis can progress to osteoarthritis or systemic amyloidosis.

Rx includes housing on soft bedding, wound care/bandaging, and parenteral antimicrobials. Prognosis is guarded.

Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus causes suppurative lymphadenitis in guinea pigs.

Chlamydia caviae is among the most common causes of infectious conjunctivitis in guinea pigs.

Trixacarus caviae (a sarcoptic mite) causes mange in guinea pigs.

Dermatophytosis in guinea pigs is common and is caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. mentagrophytes.

Image courtesy of Uwe Gille.