[Gpdd] HEALTH: correction to arthritic piggies

[Sandra Oliver-Poore]

Ann. Not that I suspect this in your piggies case but in general I recommend
an additional treatment if a piggie suddenly loses use of back legs or
becomes suddenly incontinent. In this case, also treat with Vit C and treat
with the usual doses of ivermectin and Panacur, repeating three times the
ivermectin weekly and four doses of the Panacur each of 4 consecutive days.
This is because parasites that attack the spinal column can be involved if
there is loss of use of the hind limbs with or without incontinence. The
parasite e. cunicili is rare in guinea pigs, but more common if the piggie
lives with or previously lived with rabbits. Buns get the disease more
often, piggies sometimes are carriers and rarely come down with symptoms,
but it does happen. If you suspect e.c., the piggie should always be seen by
an exotics or rodent specialist, and be immediately quarantined. The vet
will oversee the treatment above, although it is very hard to diagnose e.c.
There is no specific test. 

Of course, a piggie should always be kept current on parasite protocol, and
that's the best prevention for e.c. Please note I am not saying e. c. is
involved in arthritis, they are separate diseases, but a piggie should be
evaluated for e.c. when extreme loss of use in the hind limbs occurs,
especially if it's sudden. Ditto rapid onset of blindness or head tilt.
Again, it's very rare in piggies. 

I am not a vet or in any sense a professional. I am a member of this group. 

Sandy with Sammy and AR.