Cavy Tips - Medical Guide
Emergency Supplies Checklist
Contributed by Wendy Lee
Certain supplies can be stocked up as the first aid kit for the guinea pig, in case they get sick or injured in the middle of the night when all the vet clinics are closed. This is not a substitute for the medical attention they SHOULD and MUST get from the vet, but this will hopefully pull them through the night before the appointment at the vet.
Checklist
| Name | Function | Where to get |
|---|---|---|
| Betadine (Provodine / Iodine) | Antiseptic solution to disinfect cuts/wounds. Dilute with 40 parts of water to 1 part of Betadine before using. | Local pharmacy |
| Critical Care (Oxbow) | To feed the guinea pig when he / she stops eating due to pain, illness or loss of appetite due to antibiotics etc. You can ask for a smaller pack of 30 or 50 ml. Mix with 4 parts of water. | Vet / Pet stores |
| Daktarin | Contains anti-fungal properties (Miconazole). Apply thinly on fungal spot. If there is no improvement after a few days, bring to the vet for fungal test. | Local pharmacy |
| 1ml syringe | The tip should be cut off and ensure no sharp edges before using. Use during force-feeding (Critical Care mixture or water) when guinea pig is not eating/drinking. | Local pharmacy / vet |
| Revolution (kitten / puppy version only) | For mites. Exact dosage can be determined via GuineaLynx's dosage calculator . Only use this if you know the exact weight of your guinea pigs. | Pet stores / vet |
| Vitamin C (liquid or tablet) | Good to give when guinea pig is feeling poorly. Helps to strengthen their immune system. | Pet stores / local pharmacy |
| Benebac/ Fibreplex | Good to give an hour or two after feeding antibiotics to restore the guinea pig's gut flora. | Pet stores/ local pharmacy |
| Organic Extra Virgin Coconut oil | Good to apply on dry feet/small open sores | Pet's Lover's Centre |
| Non-Adherent Dressing Pad | To place on open sore before bandaging | Local pharmacy |
| Cohesive Elastic Bandage | To secure the dressing pad on open sore. This bandage has adhesive so you do not need to use a separate tape to secure the bandage. | Local pharmacy |
| Saline solution | Sterile solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) which can be used to flush/clean wound | Local pharmacy/Vet |
| Styptic Powder/ Corn Flour | To stop bleeding from accidental cut during nail trimming | Styptic Power - Pet's Lover's Centre |