Pneumonia in Guinea Pigs

Pneumonia is a respiratory infection that is common in Guinea Pigs. Pneumonia is a type of chest infection that can cause inflammation of the lungs, which affects the alveoli (air sacs) found within lungs. When pneumonia is contracted, these air sacs can fill with fluid and in severe cases, pus. Pneumonia can affect either one lung or both lungs.

If the air sacs have been compromised by fluid or pus, Guinea Pigs can find breathing more difficult. This is because it puts more strain on lungs to oxygenate the blood and can make organs, such as the heart, work harder.

There are many contributing factors to pneumonia in Guinea Pig’s, but one of the most common causes is a bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Guinea Pigs can contract the disease through a variety of different ways, but the most common is through living in poor hygienic conditions. Alternatively, Guinea Pigs can contract the condition by catching it from an already infected Guinea Pig.

Other micro-organisms that can cause pneumonia in Guinea Pigs include:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica
• Streptococcus zooepidemicus
• In rare cases, adenoviruses can cause pneumonia

Any animal, including humans, can contract pneumonia. Unfortunately, pneumonia is one of the main causes of death in Guinea Pigs. Pneumonia is contagious and can affect groups of Guinea Pigs. Guinea Pigs that are kept in large groups, such as in pet stores, can be more prone to contracting pneumonia.

Guinea Pig’s that are either young or geriatric can be at an increased risk of contracting the disease and are more susceptible to death due to pneumonia.

Guinea Pigs can be deceptive and can often appear completely healthy before a sudden onset of symptoms appear. The infected Guinea Pig may then show initial symptoms such as anorexia (reduced appetite) and depression. Other symptoms include:

• Dyspnea (difficulty breathing)
• Sneezing
• Noticeably louder breathing noises
• Fever (pyrexia - increased temperature)
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Nasal discharge
• Ocular (eye) discharge

If your Guinea Pig shows any of these symptoms, contact your veterinary surgeon immediately.

If you suspect that your Guinea Pig has a respiratory infection, it is important to seek veterinary treatment. A veterinary surgeon may be able to diagnose pneumonia just by conducting a clinical exam of the animal.

Alternatively, a veterinary surgeon may take thoracic (chest) x-rays in combination with:

• Blood samples
• Nasal/ocular discharge testing
• Ultrasound exam

Your veterinary surgeon may use a variety of different diagnostic techniques before confirming pneumonia.

The main treatment for pneumonia in Guinea Pigs is a course of antibiotics. A variety of different antibiotics may need to be used before the pneumonia is treated effectively. Do not be concerned if the antibiotic course keeps being extended by your veterinary surgeon, as this may mean that your Guinea Pig requires longer treatment.

Medications known as bronchodilators may also be used. These work by dilating (widening) the Guinea Pigs airways to make breathing easier.

Supportive treatment may also be required, depending on how unwell your Guinea Pig is. This may include hospitalisation, fluid therapy and syringe feeding.

Unfortunately, in severe cases, euthanasia may be a valid treatment option. Although upsetting, sometimes the kindest option is euthanasia in order to reduce pain and suffering.

Pneumonia can be prevented by observing strict enclosure hygiene. This includes regularly removing faeces, urine and soiled bedding. Proper hygiene is essential in preventing the growth and transmission of Streptococcus pneumoniae or other causative agents.

If you have a group of Guinea Pigs, it is important to isolate any members of the group that are showing signs of respiratory infection. Likewise, if any of your Guinea Pigs are diagnosed with pneumonia, ensure that they are fully recovered before introducing them back into the group.