Unless you weigh your guinea pigs fairly regularly then it can be really difficult to check for changes in weight. Weight loss or gain can be an indication of a health problem, and it can be one of only a few symptoms. The weights of your guinea pigs will change a little throughout the year, but dramatic weight loss can merit a trip to the vet. Weights vary a lot because there are big physiological differences between individuals and breeds. For example, Rex guinea pigs will often be a little larger than some of their friends.
Weights go up and down a little throughout the day
Once you’ve established your guinea pigs’ base weights, then guidelines are as follows:
If your guinea pig weighs less than about forty or fifty grams less than the last weigh in, this can just be part of normal fluctuations.
If your guinea pig weighs more than fifty grams less than the last weigh in, then weigh them each day and give them some more dry food just in case.
If your guinea pig weighs around one hundred grams less than the last weigh in, then this is very serious, and implies there is something seriously wrong. If this has been happening over a long period, then it’s still cause for concern, and your pet will need to see a vet immediately.
Foods For Weight Gain
If your guinea pig hasn’t been well and needs a bit of TLC, then we recommend giving them a little more dry food than usual, a little more hay, and offering them some carrots and corn which are good, dense foods for your pet.
Lily, 29 July 2019
I have a guinea pig, she is 5 years old and im scared she's losing weight. I know she is naturally a small guinea pig but recently when I pick her up I've noticed that I can feel her ribs through her fur. I am now weighing her weekly and adding more fatty foods to her mix like carrot and corn. Do you think I need to take her to the vets? Thanks