Bloat

Bloat, also known as gastrointestinal stasis, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in guinea pigs. It occurs when gas builds up in the digestive system, causing the stomach and intestines to expand.

Do no leave bloat symptoms to go away on their own!
We recommend getting your pet to an exotics vet as soon as you notice symptoms, as bloat can be life threatening for your critter!

Need an exotics vet? Find your nearest one here.

Read on for an overview of its causes, symptoms, and treatment options for bloat below:

Causes

DIETARY ISSUES:

High-Carbohydrate Diet: Feeding guinea pigs too many starchy or sugary foods can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. Vegetables that contribute to gas and bloat in guinea pigs include: Broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, cabbage, brussel sprouts, among others.

Sudden Diet Changes: Introducing new foods too quickly can cause digestive upset.

Low Fibre Intake: A diet low in hay and fiber can slow down gut motility.


STRESS:

Changes in the environment, handling, or social dynamics can lead to stress, which affects digestion.


LACK OF EXERCISE:

Insufficient physical activity can slow down the digestive process.


ILLNESS OR PAIN:

Other underlying health issues, such as dental problems or infections, can lead to decreased appetite and gut motility.

Symptoms

1. Swollen Abdomen:
The belly appears distended and feels tight or firm to the touch.

2. Pain and Discomfort:
The guinea pig may show signs of pain, such as teeth grinding, lethargy, or hunched posture.

3. Reduced Appetite:
The guinea pig may stop eating or show reduced interest in food.

4. Decreased Fecal Output:
There may be fewer droppings, or the droppings may be smaller and drier than usual (see image).

5. Difficulty Breathing:
Severe bloat can put pressure on the diaphragm, making it hard for the guinea pig to breathe.

Treatment

1. Immediate Veterinary Care:

Bloat is an emergency, and immediate veterinary attention is crucial (find your nearest exotics vet here). A vet can provide proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include:

2. Supportive Care:
- Fluid Therapy: To prevent dehydration.
- Nutritional Support: Critical care feeding formulas to maintain nutrition. Read our guide on supplement feeding here.
- Probiotics: To restore healthy gut bacteria.

3. Dietary Management:
- Ensure a high-fiber diet with plenty of hay.
- Introduce new foods gradually.
- Avoid high-carbohydrate and sugary fruits and vegetables.

4. Environmental and Lifestyle Changes:
- Reduce stress by maintaining a stable and calm environment.
- Ensure regular exercise and opportunities for physical activity.

Prevention

Balanced Diet:
Provide a diet rich in hay, fresh vegetables, and high-quality pellets. Feed vegetables that cause bloat only once or twice a week.

Regular Monitoring:
Observe your guinea pig’s eating habits, behavior, and droppings to detect early signs of digestive issues.

Regular Veterinary Checkups:
Routine health checks can help identify and address potential problems before they escalate.

Addressing the causes and symptoms of bloat promptly is vital to the health and well-being of guinea pigs. Ensuring proper diet, reducing stress, and seeking immediate veterinary care at the first signs of bloat can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Here's to a Happy Gut!

Shop Health

Oxbow Natural Science Digestive Support

$23.90

High fiber support for your pet’s digestive tract. Natural Science Digestive Support contains high fiber Timothy hay and various herbal ingredients to support the digestive health of rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, rats, and other small pets. Chicory root supports the growth of beneficial bacteria in the GI tract while Ginger Root supports gastric motility.

DETAILS
  • High fiber support for your pet’s digestive tract
  • Chicory root supports the growth of beneficial bacteria in the GI tract
  • Ginger Root supports gastric motility with anti-inflammatory properties
  • High fiber Timothy hay supports a healthy digestive system
  • Formulated with the guidance of leading veterinarians and nutritionists
  • Chamomile exerts anti-inflammatory and immune stimulan properties

Ingredients:

Timothy Grass, Barley Flour, Oat Groat Flour, Cane Molasses, Flax Seed Meal, Chamomile, Fenugreek Seed, Brewers Dried Yeast, Dried Chicory Root (Source of Inulin), Ginger Root, Guar Gum, Hydrolyzed Yeast, Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Rosemary Extract

Crude Protein (min): 12.00% Crude Fat (min): 4.00% Crude Fiber (min): 9.00%Crude Fiber (max): 13.00% Moisture (max): 10.00% Ash (max): 6.00% Calcium (min): 0.40% Calcium (max): 0.70% Phosphorus (min): 0.30% Copper (min): 7 mg/kg

Feeding guidelines:

Rabbits & Guinea Pigs

0-1 lb: 1/2 tab per day
1-4 lb: 1 tab per day
4 lb & over: 2 tabs per day

 

Herbivore Critter Care - 350g

$22.90

Crittacare Herbivore was formulated by veterinarians to provide nutritional support for sick, stressed, injured and debilitated small herbivorous animals. It should be used when these animals are not eating voluntarily.

This product is high fibre, low fat, low sugar and contains vitamins, minerals, calcium and essential amino acids, stabilised Vitamin C, probiotics (to maintain gut function) and zeolite (a natural toxin absorber).

Ingredients:

Oat Hulls, Lucerne, Wheat, Soybean, Lecithin Soy, Salt,

Probiotic (Lactobacillus acidophilus, L.casei, L. salivarius, L.plantarum, L.rhamnosus, L.brevis, Bifidobacterium bifidum, B.lactis, S. thermophilus.),

Zeolite, Lysine, Methionine, Raspberry Flavour,

Vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12 C, D3, E, H & K) &

Minerals (Calcium, Cobalt, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Selenium Sodium, Sulphur & Zinc).

Guaranteed Analysis

Min Crude Protein 14%

Min Crude Fat 2.5%

Min Crude Fibre 26%

Vitamin C 1000 mg/Kg

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