He’s breathing but not moving. sometimes he will move but then slowly stop
I'm really sorry to hear about your guinea pig's condition. Given the symptoms of breathing but not moving much, and sometimes moving slowly before stopping, this could be a sign of a serious health issue. At 7 years old, your guinea pig is considered a senior, which can make them more susceptible to various health problems.
There are several possible causes for these symptoms:
Firstly, respiratory issues could be at play. Difficulty breathing can be due to respiratory infections or other lung problems. Secondly, heart problems might be a factor, as heart disease can cause lethargy and difficulty breathing. Pain or injury is another possibility; if your guinea pig is in pain or has suffered an injury, they may be reluctant to move. Severe illnesses such as kidney failure, liver disease, or other systemic conditions can also cause severe lethargy. Lastly, temperature extremes, whether hypothermia or hyperthermia, can make guinea pigs very lethargic.
Given the severity of the symptoms and the age of your guinea pig, I strongly recommend seeking immediate veterinary care. A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination and provide the necessary treatment to address the underlying cause.
In the meantime, keep your guinea pig warm and comfortable. Ensure they have access to water and their favorite foods, but do not force-feed them if they are not interested in eating.
Please take your guinea pig to a vet as soon as possible. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask. Thank you.
i think he’s having seizures. he’s on his side and his legs will move. i don’t have any money for a vet. is there anything i can do to help the seizures
I'm really sorry to hear that Buttercup is experiencing seizures. Unfortunately, there's not much you can do at home for his symptoms.
Next, place Buttercup on a soft surface, like a towel or blanket, to prevent injury. It's crucial not to hold or restrain them during the seizure.
Ensure Buttercup stays hydrated and has access to food. Offering small amounts of their favorite foods can encourage them to eat.
While these steps can help manage the immediate situation, it's important to understand that seizures are often a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. Even though financial constraints make it difficult, seeking veterinary care is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
You might consider reaching out to local animal shelters, rescue organizations, or veterinary schools, as they sometimes offer low-cost or sliding-scale services. Additionally, some veterinarians may offer payment plans or financial assistance options.
Sadly he passed shortly after sending that message. Thank you for trying to help, you were all I had at the time and even tho deep down I knew what was going to happen it felt better having someone try to help. It really means a lot. thank you
I’m so sorry for your loss. I hope the pain in your heart will be eased by the beautiful memories you shared with your pet. May your pet rest in peace.
it’s been rough. thank you so much for your help
I'm deeply sorry for your loss. If you need someone to talk to or have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Take care of yourself during this difficult time.
thank you. I did have a question. the last hour he was alive i laid him on my chest. when i picked him up to move him he couldn’t move anything. his head, arms or legs. he was only breathing. right before he passed he moved his head and legs. stood up on my chest and looked at me. laid back down and the breathing stopped. i don’t know if it was a muscle reflex or what happened. i was just curious about what caused that to happen right before he passed
What you've described is a phenomenon that can sometimes occur in animals, and even humans, as they are passing away.
In the final moments of life, the body can experience a surge of energy or reflexive movements. It's hard to explain exactly, the brain may send out a final burst of signals, causing the muscles to contract and move.
It's clear that you provided a lot of love and comfort to Buttercup in his final moments, and that is what matters most.
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