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Guinea pig itching – signs, clean housing & practical step-by-step plan
Itching can have various causes: from excessively damp surfaces and pollution to parasites or irritation. The best starting point is almost always the same: make the enclosure extra clean and dry, wash textiles, and observe closely. On this page, you'll find a practical approach and the right links. DRD Rodent Shop® has been a specialist since 2011.
1) Signals you often see
- Lots of scratching or rubbing along edges/houses.
- Flakes, dull coat or sticky spots.
- Bald spots or scabs (often on the back/flanks or around the hindquarters).
- More restless behavior or less desire to be touched.
2) Quick check (at home)
- Habitat: Is the soil often moist? Are there any wet spots?
- Textiles: Does a cushion/hammock smell or feel damp?
- Coat: Do you see flakes/crusts and if so, where exactly?
- Group: Do several guinea pigs have complaints or just one?
- Basic: Appetite and behavior as normal?
3) Cleaning and drying plan
- Remove wet areas daily (especially near the hay/toilet area).
- Wash textiles according to the care label and put them back completely dry.
- Keep feeding and drinking areas clean; remove old vegetable scraps immediately.
- During a “major service” also wipe down corners, edges and houses and let them dry.
Shopping links: cleaning products , ground coverings and ground mats & pee mats .
4) Base, mats and comfort
A dry, comfortable substrate prevents your guinea pig from sitting in damp or dirty conditions for extended periods. Consider an absorbent substrate or a clever combination with pee pads in designated locations.
- Toilet/pee area: make one corner “service-proof”.
- Rest areas: Use clean, dry baskets/cushions and replace wet areas immediately.
- Shelters: sufficient houses and tunnels reduce unrest.
View: cushions & baskets , houses and tunnels .
5) Next step: when to seek advice
Does your guinea pig keep scratching, do you see bald patches, or is it changing rapidly? Then it's wise to seek professional advice. For care products and basic items, you can look at guinea pig care and for general support with guinea pig health .
- Remove wet spots daily.
- Wash textiles and dry completely.
- Keep drinking and feeding areas clean.
- Observe where and when itching occurs.
- If complaints persist: seek professional advice.
- Do not use any "haphazard" remedies that are not intended for guinea pigs.
- Allow the enclosure to dry and air thoroughly after cleaning.
- Replace damaged mats or frayed textiles.
Can itching come from the soil?
Yes, a damp or dirty base can cause irritation. A drier base and more frequent spot cleaning often helps a lot.
Should I throw everything away right away?
Usually not. Start by washing/changing, drying thoroughly, and keeping the enclosure extra clean.
What is a logical first step?
Remove wet spots daily, wash textiles, and observe carefully whether the problem diminishes.
Read more: Guinea pig information . Background information: LICG .
Questions about bedding or cleaning? Then check out our service page .
