If your guinea pig is not moving but is breathing and twitching, it is a significant sign of distress, often pointing to a severe underlying issue, most commonly an intense parasitic skin infection.
Understanding the Symptoms
When a guinea pig exhibits these behaviors—immobility coupled with breathing and twitching—it suggests they are experiencing considerable discomfort. While true seizures are quite rare in guinea pigs, the twitching or seizure-like behavior is often a direct result of an overwhelming sensory irritation.
The Primary Cause: Guinea Pig Mange (Trixacarus Caviae)
The most probable reason for this specific set of symptoms is an infection with a microscopic skin parasite known as guinea pig mange (Trixacarus caviae). These mites burrow deep into the guinea pig's skin, causing an extremely intense itching sensation.
- Intense Itching: The severe irritation caused by the mites burrowing beneath the skin surface leads to the involuntary twitching, which can appear similar to a seizure. Your guinea pig may even cry out or fall to one side due to the overwhelming itchiness.
- Immobility/Distress: The "not moving but breathing" aspect signifies that your guinea pig is alive but in significant pain or discomfort, potentially too distressed to move voluntarily or normally.
Recognizing Associated Signs
Beyond the twitching and immobility, guinea pigs with mange may display other noticeable signs:
- Hair Loss: Especially on the back, shoulders, and behind the ears.
- Crusty Skin/Scabs: Due to constant scratching and irritation.
- Redness or Inflammation: Areas of skin may appear inflamed.
- Weight Loss: Due to discomfort preventing them from eating normally.
- Behavioral Changes: Increased irritability, restlessness, or withdrawal.
Symptom Overview Table
For a clearer understanding, here's a quick look at the symptoms and their implications:
| Symptom | Common Observation | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Not Moving | Lethargy, reluctance to move, hunched posture | Severe pain, illness, or extreme distress |
| Breathing | Visible chest movement | Still alive, but vital signs can be affected by stress or illness |
| Twitching | Involuntary muscle spasms, jerking, "seizure-like" | Intense irritation, most commonly from burrowing mites (mange) or neurological distress |
| Crying Out | Vocalizations of pain or discomfort | Severe pain, often associated with the intense itching of mange |
| Falling to One Side | Loss of balance or control | Intense discomfort or neurological symptoms; seen with severe mange irritation |
Why Immediate Veterinary Care is Crucial
If your guinea pig is exhibiting these symptoms, it is a medical emergency. Guinea pig mange, while treatable, causes immense suffering and can rapidly worsen if left untreated.
- Pain Relief: A vet can provide medication to alleviate the intense itching and pain your guinea pig is experiencing.
- Accurate Diagnosis: A veterinarian can confirm the presence of mites through a skin scraping.
- Appropriate Treatment: Specific medications (e.g., antiparasitics) are required to eliminate the mites. Over-the-counter treatments are often ineffective and can be harmful.
- Prevent Complications: Untreated mange can lead to secondary bacterial infections, severe skin damage, and even death due to stress and pain.
What to do:
- Contact your veterinarian immediately: Describe all symptoms clearly.
- Avoid self-treatment: Do not apply any human medications or unprescribed pet treatments without veterinary guidance.
- Keep your guinea pig comfortable: Provide a quiet, warm, and clean environment.
Timely intervention by a qualified veterinarian is essential for your guinea pig's recovery and well-being.
