Ouch!

[penguin]

Hi there,

We got our guinea pig about a week ago. He is very timid and nervous - still getting use to his new surroundings. The other day, I picked him up after floor time to put him in the cage and he bit my finger, drawing blood. I think he thought it was a carrot?
I probably shouldn't have had my index finger sticking out, but it just happened to be there in front of him.

My question is - do I need to worry about catching anything from a piggy bite?
I stopped at the vets when we first got him and they said I didn't really need an initial appointment
unless he starts having any issues.
I called the vet when I got bit and he said to call my dr.
Maybe I am overreacting???

I'd appreciate any input on this subject. Thanks!

[Foggycreek]

I'd just keep an eye on it. If it swells or gets really painful then go in to your doctor.

Your little guy could have just been scared of being dropped (most guinea pigs are) or else it's painful being touched because he may have mites. Did you get him from a pet store? Many pet store guinea pigs are sold with mites and/or upper respiratory infections.

You can read about mites here.

[littlp]

my zoey has done that before, he's just confused. its also something that some guinea pigs do. I agree with what Foggycreek said, find an exotic vet that specializes in small animals; they'll be able to help u better.

[Lady Chutterly]

When Chutt was tiny, she would bite when picked up. A couple things helped me not get hurt so often. I would use a small, light towel to cover her first, then pick her up. The towel calmed her down somehow. Also, it took me a long time to learn, but if you can avoid pulling your finger away when getting bit it will tear the skin less. I also keep hydrogen peroxide around for pouring over open wounds. It cleans out wounds pretty well.

[penguin]

Thanks for all the advice everyone. I am taking him to the vet on Wed. morning for his
first visit. Yes, I did get him at a pet shop because I did not do any research first. My next
one will be from a rescue for sure. I have been online every night, getting educated, since we brought him home. Snoop was my son's birthday present . We love him
so much already. I plan on eventually finding a friend for him.

Thanks for responding everyone!