Heat Stress (Heat Stroke)

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Guinea pigs are especially susceptible to heat stroke,

particularly those that are overweight and/or heavily furred.

Environmental temperatures above 85 F, high humidity (above

70%), inadequate shade and ventilation, crowding and stress are

additional predisposing factors.



Signs of heat stroke include panting, slobbering, weakness,

refusal to move about, delirium, convulsions and eventually

death.  Heat stroke is treatable if recognized relatively early.

Heat-stressed guinea pigs should be immediately sprayed with or

bathed in cool water.  Once this first-aid is undertaken, a

veterinarian should be contacted immediately.



Prevention of heat stroke involves providing adequate shade from

the sun (if guinea pigs are housed outdoors) and adequate

ventilation (if housed indoors).  A continuous light mist or

spray of water and/or a fan operating over a container of ice can

be directed at a guinea pig within its enclosure to lower the air

temperature, whether the guinea pig is housed indoors or

outdoors.