Why is My Guinea Pig Overeating, Drinking More, and Showing Aggressive Behavior?

Dear VetBabble,

Why has my guinea pig recently started eating and drinking water a lot, exercising less, screaming when I pick her up, and attempting to bite me? Should I be concerned about any potential underlying health issues?

Understanding Your Guinea Pig’s Behavior and Health

It can be concerning when your guinea pig exhibits sudden changes in behavior and health. When your pet starts eating and drinking more water than usual, exercising less, and displaying aggressive behaviors like screaming and biting, it’s essential to investigate the underlying causes. The good news is that a veterinarian can help determine if any health issues are present and provide proper care and guidance. The increased water consumption, for example, could indicate an underlying condition like diabetes. Below, we’ll explore some possible reasons for these changes while providing useful information on guinea pig care and health.

Increased Thirst and Possible Health Issues

Guinea pigs, like other animals, might experience increased thirst for various reasons. One potential cause is diabetes, a condition that can develop in guinea pigs. To determine if this is the cause of your guinea pig’s increased thirst, a veterinarian can perform lab work and provide a diagnosis or rule out the condition. For more information regarding increased water consumption in pets, check out the following articles: Why Does My Dog Drink More Water? and Why Does My Cat Drink More Water?.

While diabetes is a possibility, other health issues could be causing your guinea pig’s change in behavior. A thorough examination by your veterinarian can help uncover any other potential causes and ensure your pet receives the appropriate treatment and care.

Proper Guinea Pig Care and Handling

Guinea pigs are delicate animals that require proper care to thrive. The behavioral changes you’ve noticed, such as screaming and attempting to bite, may also be a result of improper handling or an inadequate living environment. To better understand guinea pig care, consider reading the What Should I Know Before Getting a Guinea Pig? article, and for ongoing care tips, refer to the How Do I Take Care of a Guinea Pig? guide.

Always handle your guinea pig gently and securely, paying attention to their body language and vocalizations. Guinea pigs are social animals, so it’s important to provide enough social interaction to keep them happy and healthy. Reacting calmly and gently when your guinea pig exhibits stress or aggression will help establish trust between you and your pet.

Next Steps and Visiting a Veterinarian

To ensure your guinea pig receives proper care, it’s essential to have them examined by a veterinarian to diagnose or rule out any health issues, such as diabetes. A veterinarian can help provide guidance on proper handling techniques, diet, and exercise to help your guinea pig live a happy, healthy life. By addressing any health concerns and maintaining a consistent care routine, your guinea pig’s behavior should improve, leading to a stronger bond between you and your pet.

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