Guinea Pig Heatstroke: Signs and Emergency First Aid

Why heat is dangerous

Guinea pigs cannot sweat or pant efficiently. Temperatures above about 80°F (27°C), especially with humidity, put them at risk.

Signs of heatstroke

• •Lying stretched out and not responding.
• •Fast, shallow breathing.
• •Drooling or a wet chin.
• •Weakness, wobbling or seizures.

First aid on the way to the vet

• •Move your pig to a cool, shaded room.
• •Dampen ears and feet with cool, not ice-cold, water.
• •Offer water but do not force it.
• •Call an exotic vet immediately.

Prevention

• •Keep cages out of direct sunlight.
• •Use frozen water bottles wrapped in a towel and ceramic tiles.
• •Never leave pigs in cars or hot vehicles.
• •Use fans for air movement, not pointed directly at pigs.

When to call an exotic vet

This guide is general education, not veterinary advice. If your guinea pig stops eating, stops producing droppings, struggles to breathe, bleeds, or seems suddenly quiet, contact an exotic vet the same day. Guinea pigs hide illness, so small changes matter.