We had a guinea pig that came in because it was congested and had a decreased appetite. The guinea pig was about a year old and had not any previous healthy problems. We examined the guinea pig and found that it was slightly underweight, and we also heard some abnormal sounds when we listened to its lungs. We then took an x-ray of the guinea pig. The x-ray showed a lot of fluid and inflammation in the lungs, indicating a respiratory infection. We treated the guinea pig by first giving it fluids to help rehydrate it and make it feel better. Then the guinea pig was started on two medications. One of the medications, lasix, is a diuretic and was used to help get the fluid out of the lungs to help the guinea pig breathe better. The other medication was Baytril, an antibiotic that was used to clear the infection. Both of these medications came in tablet form so they had to be crushed and mixed with water in order to be given to the guinea pig. We sent the guinea pig home with instructions for the owner to continue the medications for a week. The guinea pig is now doing much better.
