Bitsy Get Cozy With Her Baytril Medication Bottle

Bitsy has a urinary tract infection (UTI). Uh oh!

Urinary tract infections are common yet serious health problems for guinea pigs. Female cavies are more prone to getting a UTI than males; this will probably not be the last time that one of the Happy Cavy guinea pigs experiences this kind of health issue.

A urinary tract infection is a bacterial infection that can cause pain when peeing, bloody urine, and other unsavory health problems.

BEFORE THE VET

The humans began to notice a strong odor from the HappyCavy Home about a week ago. After a few days of monitoring the guinea pigs’ behavior closely during floor time and cuddle time, they were able to figure out that the smell was coming from Bitsy.

Her bum-area was slightly wet, slightly dirty, and really stinky. The smell was the same odor that was noticed in the cage. After consulting Guinea Lynx and other online resources, it was pretty obvious that something was not right. So an appointment was made for the vet the next day.

AT THE VET

Bitsy At The Vet

Bitsy’s appointment was Thursday (April 21st).

Bitsy had X-rays taken that showed no signs of bladder or kidney stones. The vet did not want to draw urine from Bitsy’s bladder with a needle due to the infection risk and also wasn’t able to get Bitsy to pee for a sample to test. But Bitsy’s symptoms led the vet to conclude that she indeed had a UTI.

So Bitsy was prescribed Baytril, a guinea pig safe (“broad spectrum”) antibiotic. She will be taking two 0.3mL doses of Baytril each day for 10 days – but not without her putting up a fight

AFTER THE VET
The humans are also giving Bitsy a milk-free acidophilus (probiotic) in between the Baytril dosages each day. Doing this will help ensure that Bitsy does not experience gut upset from the antibiotic.

The vet said that the Baytril medication should start helping her within a few days.

Hopefully Bitsy will be better just in time for Monday…….isn’t that just like life??