Heatstroke in Guinea Pigs
Heatstroke seems like an unlikely affliction for Guinea pigs, which are native to South America and can be found in a variety of areas from forests to swamps to savannas. But, these rodents are surprisingly sensitive to sudden changes in their environments. High temperatures, in particular, can be harmful, potentially causing lethargy, seizures, and even death. Knowing how to prevent heatstroke and recognize signs of Guinea pig distress may help save your pet's life.
What Is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke occurs when a Guinea pig's body temperature gets too high. A Guinea pig's normal body temperature ranges between 102 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and environmental temperatures above that range are risky for this animal. Serious internal damage, such as inflammation and blood clotting issues, can occur when a Guinea pig overheats.
Symptoms of Heatstroke in Guinea Pigs
Symptoms
- Lethargy
- Rapid breathing
- Open mouth breathing or panting
- Laying on side
- Drooling
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death
The signs of heatstroke in a guinea pig may seem subtle at first, but if you notice your guinea pig is slower and more lethargic than usual, these could be the first indications that it is overheating.
Rapid breathing may be seen if you watch its chest and see that it is moving more quickly than usual. Panting or open-mouth breathing may also be observed.
An overheated Guinea pig may drool excessively or lie limply on its side. In severe cases, it may experience seizures. If heatstroke symptoms are not quickly addressed, coma and death can occur.
Causes of Heatstroke
Heatstroke in Guinea pigs can happen in less than an hour and can result from anything that makes a Guinea pig's body get too warm too quickly. Some examples of situations that may result in heatstroke include:
- Being left in a hot vehicle
- Sitting in the sun
- Sitting under a heat light
- Being outside on a hot day
- Sitting in front of a heat vent
- Being in a house that is over 80 degrees
