The main difference between these two is that static mites live in your guinea pig’s hair, while the sarcoptic mite burrows under its skin.

Avoid future infestations by quarantining and treating new animals if suspected of being carriers and practising good husbandry. The two common guinea pig fur mites are Trixacarus caviae (sarcoptic mange mite) and Chirodiscoides caviae.I would recommend you stop with the Spot On treatments as this may remove any evidence and make diagnosis harder. Lice 'n' Easy Shampoo can help guineas with external parasites to feel more comfortable as they may cause irritation if left untreated.

When used according to directions and dosed carefully, it is a much more effective and safe product. When mites are properly diagnosed, all your guinea pigs will need treatment and their living quarters must be thoroughly cleaned.Whichever of these your guinea pig has, it’s important that you don’t try to treat it using anti-flea medication, as lots of flea treatments contain ingredients that are poisonous to guinea pigs. Use in conjunction with environmental treatment and ensure all bedding and accommodation is fully cleaned too. Ensure you are giving your pets good-quality pellets, plenty of hay and a variety of vegetables and fruit. Owners to need wash their hands thoroughly after handling guinea pigs and after cleaning their home to reduce the risk of catching it themselves. Guineas often carry mites with no symptoms, but when they get stressed (moving to a new home, pregnancy, illness, old age etc) the mites can start breeding and causing problems.