Your guinea pig’s body cannot synthesize create vitamin C. Thus you need to add it to your pig’s diet to prevent scurvy. Preventing a vitamin C deficiency is easier than managing the problems of scurvy. The potency of vitamin C drops mixed into your pig’s water dissipates quickly so this isn’t an ideal solution. Check that some of your guinea pig’s fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin C. Foods that offer lots of vitamin C are papaya, oranges, kale, spinach and tomatoes. Symptoms of scurvy include swollen joints, malaise, muscular weakness, diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight loss. Any wounds your guinea pig experiences heal slowly or will bleed excessively. You may see bruising from bleeding under the skin. Scurvy can get very serious and may kill your guinea pig. Make an appointment with your vet Farmers Branch, TX for evaluation and treatment if you notice any signs of scurvy.
