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What's wrong? My guinea pig is lethargic, won't eat, and off balance.

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Female

My cavy is lethargic and refusing to eat. She has lost her balance and is very very quiet. I think that she is ill. HELP!!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on January 15, 2018

This is a quite generic but concerning sign. Differentials are many, from gastrointestinal diseases (infection/inflammations often dietary related) to any disease that can spread systemically (causing lethargy for example) like infection, and anything that can cause pain/discomfort.
Loss of balance could be due to a neurological problem affecting the vestibular system (the one in charge of maintaining the balance). Very commonly middle ear inflammation is responsible for the vestibular system.
The approach must be logic, starting from offering different kind of food. A check up is needed if inappetence last for more than 24hours.
Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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