[Gpdd] [HEALTH] Jelly substance

[Cazza177]

Dear Glnis

I can't say for sure what this is, but we had a cat with this problem, and
in her case it was connected with irritable bowel syndrome and mucus in her
stools.  I think that you should telephone your vet and report this as soon
as you can (if you haven't already), as it may give him/her a clue as to
what may be causing Duke's weight loss.

It might also be worth contacting a homeopathic vet on this, as they are
more receptive to the role diet plays in good animal health, and they might
be able to give you a few pointers for Duke's current disinterest in food,
and what that jelly is all about.

If Duke has been on a series of courses of antibiotics of late, this will
destroy not only the bad bacteria in his gut, but the good bacteria as well.
Enough courses of antibiotics can make it hard for the good bacteria to
re-populate.  This might explain the mucus in his stools?  Gut bacteria is
connected with a healthy immune system.

A good probiotic is excellent for maintaining healthy gut flora in a guinea
pig, and the mucus in his stalls may suggest he needs that.  I don't know
what amount of probiotic you would need to give a guinea pig, and you can
over-do it.  I wonder if sending a text to Vedra at Cambrdige Cavy Trust may
be a really good thing try.  I have met her a few times now, and think she
is exceptional with guinea pig knowledge.  She is a qualified rodentologist.
Her number is 07721 026401.  It won't cost that much to do, and her advice
will be bang-on and will help put your mind at rest about Duke.

I will keep Duke and you in my prayers.  Carole

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From: "Glynis Robson" <Glynis at garnay.com.au>
Date: Tue, 28 Nov 2006 10:29:45 +1100
To: <gpdd at gpdd.org>
Subject: [Gpdd] [HEALTH] Jelly substance

Hi does anyone know what the jelly like substance is that is sometimes
attached to a poo.  I found one attached to Duke's butt on saturday and
that's the day he started to go down hill again.  Again this morning i
noticed when i did a towel clean out that there was a perfectly formed
poo but with this jelly like substance attached to it.  Not sure howelse
to describe it.
 
He's not eating well barely, will eat teeny pieces of lettuce when
offered but basically turns his nose away and puts his butt towards all
his food.  Have been giving him metacam for pain as on sunday morning he
was in obvious pain, he actually wimpered and as you know they don't
usually tell you much.  Also today was the 3rd dose of colic drops 0.2ml
per day only.
 
Appreciate your thoughts and advice on this one.
 
Duke and his worried granny slave Glynis