Parasites are one of the most common health issues seen in guinea pigs, yet they are often misunderstood or missed entirely. Guinea pigs are prey animals and naturally hide discomfort, which means parasite problems can become severe before obvious signs appear.
Itching, hair loss, pain, weight loss, and behaviour changes are all signs that parasites may be present. Understanding which parasites affect guinea pigs, how serious they are, and which treatments are safe is essential for keeping your guinea pig healthy and comfortable.
If your guinea pig is showing signs of parasites, they should be assessed by a veterinarian experienced with guinea pigs. Early veterinary advice can prevent unnecessary pain and complications.
Do Guinea Pigs Need Worming?
No.
Guinea pigs do not get worms and do not require worming.
Parasite issues in guinea pigs relate to mites and lice. Using worming products or medications designed for other animals without veterinary direction is unnecessary and can be harmful.
Mange Mites – The Most Serious Parasite in Guinea Pigs
Mange mites (Trixacarus caviae) are the most serious parasite affecting guinea pigs. These microscopic mites burrow into the skin and cause intense pain and irritation.
Many guinea pigs carry mange mites without showing symptoms. Stress such as illness, pregnancy, transport, rehoming, or showing can cause mites to flare suddenly and severely.
Signs of Mange Mites
- Severe scratching or biting at the skin
- Hair loss, commonly on the shoulders, back, and sides
- Red, inflamed, thickened, or scabby skin
- Extreme sensitivity or pain when touched
- Screaming or freezing when handled
- Weight loss and lethargy
- Seizures in advanced cases due to pain and stress
Mange mites are extremely painful and require prompt treatment. Any guinea pig showing these signs should be seen by a vet as soon as possible.
Fur Mites – Common but Not Serious
Fur mites (Chirodiscoides caviae) are common in guinea pigs and are not considered serious. They live on the hair shafts rather than in the skin, most owners don’t notice them.
Signs of Fur Mites
- Dandruff-like flakes in the coat
- Mild itching
- Rough or untidy-looking fur
While fur mites are mild, a veterinary check is still recommended to confirm the cause of symptoms and ensure correct treatment.
Lice in Guinea Pigs
Lice are commonly seen in guinea pigs, particularly in rescues, pet shop guinea pigs, or larger groups.
Guinea pig lice are species-specific, meaning they only live on guinea pigs and cannot infest humans, cats, or dogs.
Signs of Lice
- Small white or tan insects visible in the fur
- Increased scratching
- Patchy hair loss
- Restlessness
If lice are suspected or seen, a vet visit is recommended to confirm the diagnosis and ensure the most appropriate treatment is used.
How Guinea Pigs Get Parasites
Guinea pigs can pick up mites or lice through direct contact with another guinea pig, shared bedding or equipment, bringing new guinea pigs into the home, or through stress causing dormant parasites to flare.
Parasites are common and are not a sign of poor care. Even well-cared-for guinea pigs can be affected.
Diagnosing Parasites in Guinea Pigs
Diagnosis is usually based on clinical signs, physical examination of the coat and skin, visual confirmation of lice, and response to treatment. If a guinea pig is showing signs of parasites, they should be taken to a veterinarian experienced with guinea pigs for assessment and advice, particularly if symptoms are severe, worsening, or causing pain.
Safe Parasite Treatments for Guinea Pigs
Fidos Products
Fidos products are commonly used for surface parasites such as lice and mild infestations.
They may be suitable for lice & fur mite but should not be relied on for mange mites.
Ivermectin (Ivomec)
Ivermectin is considered the gold standard treatment for guinea pig parasites.
It treats mange mites, fur mites, and lice and is available as a topical, oral, or injectable treatment. Courses usually involve repeated doses at 7–10 day intervals.
All guinea pigs in the household should be treated together. A vet can advise on correct dosing and treatment schedules.
Selamectin (Revolution)
Revolution is another safe and effective treatment when correctly dosed for guinea pigs.
It treats mange mites, fur mites, and lice and is commonly prescribed by vets, especially in severe or persistent cases.
Cleaning the Environment
Environmental cleaning is an important part of parasite control. Bedding should be replaced, hides and accessories washed, food bowls and water bottles cleaned, and cages thoroughly disinfected.
Products to Avoid
Never use cat or dog flea treatments, products containing permethrin or pyrethrins, essential oils, or unproven “natural” remedies. Many of these are toxic to guinea pigs.
Preventing Parasites in Guinea Pigs
New guinea pigs should be quarantined for at least two to three weeks and monitored for signs of parasites.
Good hygiene, regular cage cleaning, stress reduction, and routine health checks all play an important role in prevention.
If any signs of parasites appear, seek veterinary advice early rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.
Final Thoughts
Parasites are common in guinea pigs, but they should never be ignored. Mange mites are the most serious and require urgent attention. Fur mites are mild but still need treatment. Lice are manageable with the correct products.
Using guinea pig–safe treatments, maintaining good hygiene, and seeking veterinary care at the first signs of parasites will help keep guinea pigs comfortable, healthy, and pain-free.
This guide is based on experience and general guinea pig care knowledge. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your guinea pigs are showing signs of parasites, skin issues, hair loss, itching or pain consult a qualified exotic veterinarian.
