How to treat ticks in guinea pigs? - briefly
Remove ticks with fine tweezers, grasping as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out, then clean the site with a mild antiseptic and apply a veterinarian‑approved topical acaricide. Monitor the animal for signs of infection and seek veterinary advice for any complications.
How to treat ticks in guinea pigs? - in detail
Ticks on guinea pigs require immediate removal, appropriate medication, and strict hygiene to prevent recurrence.
First, confirm the presence of parasites by inspecting the skin, especially around the ears, neck, and ventral surface. Ticks appear as small, engorged nodes attached to the fur.
Second, isolate the affected animal to avoid spreading the parasites to other pets. Use a clean cage with fresh bedding that can be discarded after treatment.
Third, eliminate the parasites physically. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine-tipped forceps and pull steadily upward without twisting. Dispose of the removed tick by submerging it in alcohol.
Fourth, apply a veterinarian‑approved acaricide. Options include:
- Topical spot‑on products containing fipronil or selamectin, applied according to the label dosage for guinea pigs.
- Oral ivermectin, administered at 0.2 mg/kg body weight, repeated after 7 days to cover the life cycle.
Dosage adjustments must be calculated based on the individual’s weight; an adult guinea pig typically weighs 700–1200 g.
Fifth, treat the environment. Wash all bedding, toys, and accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry thoroughly. Disinfect the cage with a solution of 1 % diluted bleach, then rinse and dry before re‑housing the animal.
Sixth, monitor for signs of secondary infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge at the bite site. If any of these appear, seek veterinary care for possible antibiotic therapy.
Seventh, implement preventive measures:
- Conduct weekly visual inspections of the coat.
- Maintain a tick‑free habitat by keeping the cage indoors, away from grass or foliage that may harbor parasites.
- Use a monthly prophylactic spot‑on treatment as recommended by a veterinarian.
Following these steps reduces the risk of tick‑borne disease and promotes the health of the guinea pig.