Guinea Pig Sneezing, Clicking or Wheezing: Breathing Sounds That Need a Vet

What you are hearing

Breathing sounds are not a form of communication. They can be an early sign of a respiratory problem, which in guinea pigs can become serious.

What different sounds can suggest

• •An occasional sneeze: often dust or hay particles and may be normal.
• •Repeated sneezing: possible irritation or infection.
• •Clicking, crackling or rattling: possible respiratory infection.
• •Wheezing or open-mouth breathing: an urgent concern.

Other signs to check

• •Discharge from the eyes or nose.
• •Crusty eyes or wet fur around the nose.
• •Reduced appetite, weight loss or lethargy.
• •Dusty bedding or hay, or strong ammonia smell from a dirty cage.

When to contact a vet

• •Contact an exotic vet promptly for clicking, crackling, wheezing or discharge.
• •Seek urgent help for labored or open-mouth breathing.

Sound in context

Sounds are only one clue. Read them together with body language, the situation and what is normal for your own guinea pig. Wheeky Identifier's Sound Translator can help you record and compare sounds, but a sudden change in vocal behavior alongside reduced appetite, fewer droppings or hunched posture needs an exotic vet, not an app.

For an overview of every common sound, see our complete guide to guinea pig sounds and meanings in the Care Library.