Malocclusion of Premolar Teeth (Slobbers)

           -----------------------------------------



A common problem of guinea pigs (especially those over 2-3 years

old) results when the upper and lower premolar teeth (the most

forward cheek teeth) meet improperly while chewing.  In time,

this problem results in abnormal wear of these teeth.  This in

turn causes entrapment of and continual injury to the tongue.

Affected animals try to eat but cannot chew and swallow food.

Drooling results in a continually moist mouth and chin.  Weight

loss is often dramatic.



A veterinarian must be consulted as soon as possible if this

condition is suspected.  The diagnosis is confirmed upon direct

visual examination of the mouth.  Correction of the problem

involves general anesthesia and aggressive trimming or filing of

the overgrown teeth.  This is a difficult procedure because of

the guinea pig's extremely small mouth opening.  Forced feedings

and antibiotics are usually necessary for a number of days before

and after this procedure has been performed.



There is no permanent solution or correction for this problem.

Periodic trimming or filing is almost always necessary.  Guinea

pigs with this problem should never be bred to prevent passing

this most undesirable trait to their offspring.