If you have noticed that your guinea pig has cloudy eyes you will naturally be worried, and wonder Why is My Guinea Pig’s Eye Cloudy? what it could mean.
A healthy guinea pig’s eyes should be clear and brightly coloured.
If they look cloudy, or there is any unusual discharge, this could be a sign of several things.
Why Is My Guinea Pig’s Eye Cloudy?
A Guinea pigs eye will turn cloudy if there is something stuck in it like hay or if an ulcer has formed. If something is stuck in your guinea pigs eye then they will probably scratch the eye to try to remove it.
Cloudy eye issues are serious, and you should see a vet immediately if your guinea pig has cloudy eyes, or excessive discharge from the cloudy eyes that isn’t just natural secretions.
The possible reasons why a guinea pig’s eye might be cloudy, include:
- Cataracts: This is a common issue in older guinea pigs and can cause cloudy or white spots in the eyes.
- Infections: Bacterial, fungal or viral infections can cause cloudiness or discharge in the eyes.
- Injury: Any trauma or injury to the eye can cause cloudiness or opacity.
- Glaucoma: This is a condition where the pressure inside the eye increases, leading to cloudiness and other symptoms.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of vitamin A in the diet can lead to eye problems, including cloudiness.
1 : Cataracts
Cataracts in guinea pigs can manifest in a few different ways. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Cloudy or White Spots in the Eye: Cataracts can cause an opacity in the lens of the eye, leading to a cloudy or white appearance.
- Reduced Vision: If your guinea pig has cataracts, they may have difficulty seeing or navigating their environment.
- Eye Rubbing or Discharge: Cataracts can cause eye irritation, leading to symptoms such as rubbing or discharge.
- Behavioral Changes: If your guinea pig has cataracts, they may become more hesitant or hesitant to move around or explore their surroundings.
- Eye Ulcer: Just like us guinea pigs can get ulcers in their eyes, This can become very uncomftable for them and they will constantly scratch at it.
If your guinea pig has cataracts, it is important to take them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
2 : Infection
There a several signs that might indicate that your guinea pig has an eye infection. One or all of them could be present.
As already mentioned, cloudy eyes, and excessive, unusual discharges are one major sign of infection. You should also look out for redness and inflammation of the eye.
This will cause your guinea pig to scratch or rub its eyes with its paws. Bulges and swelling around the eye are another sign. If any or all of these signs present, you need to see a vet as soon as possible.
How To Treat An Eye Infection
Your vet can prescribe special eye ointments which treat infections. Most eye infections are caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, or by an injury to the eye, such as from a poke with a piece of hay or straw.
Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal ointments will treat the infection.
Continue to give your guinea pig lots of water and green leafy vegetables. Make sure they have a balanced diet and lots of bed rest. Doing all of this will aid in their recovery, helping their eye to heal more quickly.
3 : Injury
A closed cloudy eye could mean that your guinea pig has been poked in the eye and has an injury. It could also have dirt in its eye.
Watch your guinea pig throughout the day. If they do not open their eye after a few hours, there might be something stuck in it. Try to have a look for yourself.
Be gentle. If your guinea pig won’t let you touch their eyelids, you will need to go see a vet. There could be something under their eyelids, such as a bit of dirt or a piece of hay or straw that has got into their eye.
4 : Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition in guinea pigs that occurs when there is increased pressure inside the eye, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
In normal eyes, there is a balance between the amount of fluid produced in the eye and the amount of fluid that drains out. If the fluid does not drain properly, the pressure inside the eye can increase, leading to glaucoma.
Guinea pigs with glaucoma may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:
- Cloudy eyes
- Bulging eyes
- Milky eyes
- Red or bloodshot eyes
- Enlarged pupils that do not respond to light
- Vision loss
- Changes in behavior or activity levels, such as reduced appetite or lethargy.
5 : Nutritional Deficiencies
Guinea pigs require a diet that is high in fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients in order to maintain a healthy weight, strong immune system, and proper digestion.
If a guinea pig is not getting enough of these nutrients, they may experience a range of health problems, including:
- Dental problems: A diet that is low in fiber can lead to dental issues such as overgrown teeth or tooth decay.
- Weak immune system: Vitamin C is essential for a guinea pig’s immune system. A deficiency can make them more susceptible to infections and diseases.
- Digestive problems: A diet that is low in fiber can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, or impaction.
- Skin and coat problems: A diet that is lacking in essential nutrients can lead to skin problems such as dryness, itching, or hair loss.
- Growth and developmental issues: Young guinea pigs require a balanced diet for proper growth and development. A deficiency in essential nutrients can lead to stunted growth or developmental issues.
- Eye problems: A lack of vitamin A can lead to cloudy eye problems such as cloudiness or even blindness.
It is important to ensure that your guinea pig is receiving a balanced and nutritious diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies and associated health problems.
If you suspect that your guinea pig is experiencing a nutritional deficiency, it is important to take them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
6 : Eye Ulcer
Guinea pigs can develop corneal ulcers that are bothersome for them and worrisome for us. Your guinea pig’s vet is going to have to be consulted when this issue becomes present. There are prescription eye ointments.
Ulcers heal sometimes with the use of antibiotics. The ulcer could last 3-7 days and with proper treatment, relief is around the corner. Something may have come into contact with your guinea pig’s eye in other forms of trauma.
A stick in the eye or a sharp piece of hay could have caused it. Dry eyes could also be the culprit. In any case, this is a condition that needs prescription mediation and a diagnosis first and foremost.
Once you are told that it is in fact corneal ulcers in your guinea pig’s eye, you can apply the correct treatment prescribed from the vet.
Guinea Pig Hay Poke
Guinea pig hay poke, also known as corneal abrasion, is a condition that occurs when a piece of hay or other small object becomes lodged in a guinea pig’s eye, causing an injury to the cornea.
This can lead to symptoms such as squinting, tearing, and redness of the eye. In severe cases, the injury can become infected or lead to scarring, which can cause permanent vision loss.
How To Remove Hay From Guinea Pigs Eye
Here are the steps to follow to safely remove hay from your guinea pig’s eye:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to prevent introducing any additional bacteria into your guinea pig’s eye.
- Gently restrain your guinea pig to prevent them from moving around too much during the procedure. You may need the assistance of another person to help hold your guinea pig still.
- Using a clean, damp cloth or cotton swab, gently wipe away any discharge or debris from around the affected eye.
- Using a pair of tweezers or your fingertips, gently grasp the hay or foreign object and carefully remove it from your guinea pig’s eye.
- If your guinea pig appears to be in pain or if the hay is embedded in the eye, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, seek immediate veterinary attention.
- Once the object has been removed, rinse the eye with saline solution to help flush out any remaining debris.
How To Prevent Guinea Pig Hay Poke
Guinea pig hay poke, also known as corneal abrasion, is a condition that occurs when a piece of hay or other small object becomes lodged in a guinea pig’s eye, causing an injury to the cornea.
This can lead to symptoms such as squinting, tearing, and redness of the eye. In severe cases, the injury can become infected or lead to scarring, which can cause permanent vision loss.
How Long Does Hay Poke Take to Heal
The time it takes for a guinea pig’s hay poke to heal depends on the severity of the injury.
Minor corneal abrasions can heal within a few days to a week, while more severe injuries may take several weeks or even months to heal completely.
Treatment typically involves the use of antibiotics and pain medications, as well as measures to protect the affected eye from further injury or irritation. It is important to closely follow your veterinarian’s instructions for care and to monitor your guinea pig’s progress during the healing process.
What Eye Drops To Use For Guinea Pig Hay Poke
Eye drops for guinea pigs with hay poke should be prescribed by a veterinarian, as they will be able to determine the appropriate medication and dosage based on the severity of the injury.
Commonly prescribed eye drops for guinea pigs with corneal abrasions may include antibiotics to prevent infection, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling, and pain medications to alleviate discomfort
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Does My Guinea Pig Have White Stuff In His Eyes?
As already mentioned, guinea pigs secrete a white discharge from their eyes when grooming themselves. This white, milky fluid is a cleaning agent, that they use to clean their fur.
White discharge, or discharge of any colour is only a concern if it is excess and constant.
Look for any unusual, coloured discharge. If you think there is a problem, you can do no harm by visiting a vet.
Do Guinea Pigs Get Crusty Eyes?
Guinea pigs can and do get crusty eyes. It could be the sign of a respiratory infection, an allergy, or some other infection of the eyes. A vet is the best person to diagnose any eye issues.
They will prescribe the right treatment for your guinea pig.
Your guinea pig might need its eyes cleaned. A vet is the best person do this.
Why Does My Guinea Pig Have Eye Discharge?
Sometimes it’s quite fine to witness some discharge expelling from the eyes of your guinea pig. It’s a normal part of a guinea pig’s life to get rid of debris that could have gotten in there.
Eye discharge also helps guinea pigs clean their faces. If you notice the discharge to be a white or creamy texture, it’s absolutely fine. Pretend it’s an automatic soap dispenser they have built into their eyes to use for quick cleanings.
This is a self-grooming animal that uses the discharge for grooming and regular hygienic practices. We love seeing our cute cavies rubbing their faces with the discharge a few times a day as an act of face washing. It’s adorable for us to watch and useful for them to do so.
What Eye Drops to Give Guinea Pigs?
What is the reason why you wish to give eye drops to your guinea pig? Do you see some sort of inflammation, infection or just a creamy discharge? If it’s the latter, you do not need to use eye drops because white or creamy discharges are normal.
They use this discharge to wipe their faces as part of the grooming process. If you see something red, swelling or an infection developing, you will receive the correct form of eye cream or eye drops from the vet.
They may also decide to perform an injection to the back of the guinea pig’s neck instead of using eye drops.
Optrex eye drops have been used by some guinea pig caregivers, but without knowing what’s wrong or whether it’s just normal discharge, acting on it with our own eye drops is not advised.
Why Does My Guinea Pig Have One Eye Closed?
There are several reasons why a guinea pig may have one eye closed, including an injury, infection, or irritation. It is important to take your guinea pig to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
