What are common health problems in guinea pigs? Part 3

Carolyn Pietzner
Jan 2
2 min read

Dental disease

Guinea pigs possess continuously growing incisors (front teeth) and molars (cheek or chewing teeth). This constant growth enables them to consume fibrous and abrasive foods in their natural habitat. The anatomical positioning of the teeth and their circular chewing motion cause each side to wear down its opposite side, maintaining proper balance. However, if this balance is disturbed, persistent issues can arise.

Causes of Dental Disease

Dental disease can be caused by several factors, which may occur individually or in combination:

Inadequate fibre or abrasiveness in the diet. Diets low in fibre require less chewing, leading to insufficient wear on the continuously growing molar teeth. These teeth can then develop crown overgrowth, altering the guinea pig’s chewing motion and potentially resulting in changes in tooth alignment.
Healthy bones need calcium, vitamin D, and ultraviolet light to remain strong. Guinea pigs with limited sunlight exposure or diets low in calcium and vitamin D may develop bone softening, often referred to as metabolic bone disease. Normal chewing pressure can then alter tooth alignment, leading to dental disease.
Similar to sailors from centuries ago who developed scurvy from not consuming fruit during long sea voyages, guinea pigs can develop scurvy if their diet lacks vitamin C. Without sufficient vitamin C supplementation, guinea pigs may experience hair loss, swollen joints, and loosening of their teeth in their sockets.
Certain strains of guinea pigs seem to develop dental disease more frequently than others, possibly due to poor bone structure or abnormally positioned teeth. There may be a hereditary component to dental disease.

Clinical Signs of Dental Disease

Guinea pigs with dental disease:

May show a strong interest in food but hesitate to eat.
May drop food while chewing, refuse harder foods, or struggle with chewing and swallowing.
Often dribble saliva, causing matted fur on the chin and neck (‘slobbers’).
Usually experience weight loss.
May suffer from diarrhea or constipation.
Often become weak and lethargic due to the pain.

Treatment

Treatment can be lengthy, complex, and costly. It is essential to consult your guinea pig vet as soon as possible before the changes in the teeth and jaw become permanent.