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Study reveals most common guinea pig disorders
Overgrown nails were the most commonly seen condition.
Researchers examined clinical records of over 3,500 guinea pigs.

Overgrown nails, ringworm, and eye ulcers are the most common conditions seen in pet guinea pigs in the UK, a new study has found.

Researchers from the VetCompass research programme at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) analysed anonymised clinical records from a random sample of 3,785 guinea pigs which were under primary veterinary care in the UK in 2019.

The records showed that overgrown nails were by far the most recorded disorder, seen in 26.55 per cent of guinea pigs. The second most common issue, ringworm, affected 6.02 per cent of the animals in the study, and 4.99 per cent had an eye ulcer. Other common health issues included anorexia and abscesses

Males were found to be more likely to have bite injuries, anorexia and dental problems such as overgrown incisors, whereas females were more likely to have eye disorders, such as coreal ulcerations, and abdominal masses

The research also revealed that females lived longer than males, with female guinea pigs having a life expectancy of 4.56 years compared to the males’ 3.74 years.

As several of the most common disorders are linked to sedentary lifestyles, the authors believe that the findings can help veterinary professionals advise guinea pig owners about providing the right conditions and care to keep their pets healthy.

Dan O’Neill, lead author of the study, said: “This study highlights that many of the most common health issues of pet guinea pigs are related to how we keep them as pets in captivity.

“With this new awareness, owners can better understand the world from the guinea pigs' perspective and provide exercise, bedding and nail care to ensure these wonderful creatures enjoy healthier lives.”

The study has been published in the journal PLOS One.

Image © Shutterstock

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
RVC leads globally for Veterinary Science

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has retained its lead in Veterinary Science education in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

The college scored 100 for its Academic Reputation and increased its Employer Reputation to 91.7 points. It also maintained high scores for Citations per Paper and H-Index.

RVC says that its score recognises its students' employability and the institution's standing with employers. It also highlighted the impact that its graduates and alumni are making in the sector.

Stuart Reid CBE, president and principal of RVC, said: "We are dedicated to maintaining the teaching, learning and research that takes place at the RVC.

"I am delighted that the effort from all our staff and students has once again led to a great outcome in the QS rankings; it is a privilege we do not take for granted."

The full rankings can be found here.