How to determine if a guinea pig has fleas? - briefly
Examine the coat and skin for tiny, fast‑moving dark specks and for flea feces (small black grains resembling pepper), and note any persistent scratching or restlessness. Use a fine‑toothed comb over a white surface to capture and verify any fleas that dislodge.
How to determine if a guinea pig has fleas? - in detail
A flea infestation in a guinea pig can be confirmed by observing the animal’s skin, coat, and behavior. The following indicators are reliable:
- Small, dark specks moving quickly on the fur; fleas are about 2‑3 mm long and appear as tiny black dots.
- Flea dirt, which looks like fine black pepper; a drop of water on the spot will turn reddish‑brown as it dissolves.
- Intense scratching, biting, or grooming, especially around the neck, back, and hindquarters.
- Red or inflamed patches on the skin, sometimes with a raised, hair‑free ring.
- Visible adult fleas on the animal’s body or in the bedding, especially after shaking the pet over a white surface.
A systematic examination improves accuracy:
- Place the guinea pig on a clean, white towel.
- Use a fine‑toothed flea comb, moving it from the head toward the tail in short strokes.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a damp paper towel; examine the residue under a magnifying glass.
- Repeat the process on the ventral side, ears, and between the toes.
- Inspect the cage, focusing on corners, hides, and bedding; any live fleas or larvae confirm an environment infestation.
If fleas are detected, immediate treatment is required. Options include:
- Topical spot‑on products specifically labeled for guinea pigs; apply according to the manufacturer’s dosage.
- Oral medications approved by a veterinarian; never use products intended for dogs or cats.
- Environmental control: wash all bedding in hot water, vacuum the cage thoroughly, and treat the surrounding area with a pet‑safe insecticide spray.
Monitoring after treatment involves repeating the comb inspection every 24 hours for a week. Absence of live fleas, flea dirt, or skin irritation indicates successful eradication. Regular preventive measures—weekly grooming with a flea comb, maintaining a clean cage, and periodic veterinary checks—reduce the risk of recurrence.