[Gpdd] [HEALTH] (My piggies and vets)

[Ann Evans]

Dear Ellen,

I do not recall why Cheyenie has been on Baytril. If it is because she 
has a respiratory infection it is very important that you get her to the 
vet ASAP for a one off dose of Lasix 10 mg. Most Cavy respiratory 
infections involve fluid in the lungs. This fluid will also put her off 
eating and drinking. Lasix should always be given on the first day of 
treatment for respiratory infections. If she does not get the lasix and 
she has fluid in her lungs the antibiotics will not be able to save her. 
That is why it is so important that she get the Lasix as soon as 
possible. The dose of Baytril should be 10 mg twice a day for 7-10 days. 
Also the anti-inflammatory drug Dexamethasone at a dose of 0.5-2.0 mg/kg 
subcutaneously may help her breath easier. Vicks wiped across her nose 
3-4 times a day is also helpful. Since she has gone off food and water 
she should be given subcutaneous fluids such as body temperature 
lactated Ringer's solution 10 ml at one site for a total of 40 ml per 
day. This is very important to prevent her from dying from dehydration 
or kidney failure. If fluid returns to her lungs within 12 hours of 
giving her the lasix she can be given another dose of lasix but at the 
reduced rate of 5 mg. If fluid in the lungs continues to return you may 
be facing a case of congestive heart failure. In that case Enalapril 
(Vasotec) starting at a dose of 1.0 mg orally/day is used. Your vet 
would need to establish the minimum effective dose over time.
I am not a vet. I am just giving you information that I have learned 
from The British Association of Rodentologists and from operating a 
private cavy rescue home for 26 years.
I wish you and Cheyenie the best.
Sincerely,

Ann and the Rescued Piggys of Piggyville, Tampa Florida USA.