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Guinea pig sudden death

5 replies

bonfeee · 21/09/2025 01:34

Our beloved guinea pig Norah died suddenly. Fed her and her sister Rumi in the morning, both fine and eating. Went to change their water bowl at lunch time and Norah was just lying there, extremely weak, floppy, but breathing and had a heartbeat. Bundled her up in a blanket and went straight to the vets. Was waiting in the waiting room to be seen, felt like a lifetime but was probably only two minutes. She was doing agonal breathing when the vet took her off me and had died before the vet got her to the exam room. Horrible experience, and in surprised at how upset I was. My son on the other hand, totally devastated, has cried every night since. We picked up another rescue the next day (Suki) to keep Rumi company, which has helped a bit. Just so sad, she was only two. Vet said looked healthy in all other areas, had food in her mouth so had been eating, healthy weight, healthy teeth, no masses, hydrated etc. Just, died. Anyway, I know, it's only a guinea pig, but she was so lovely and it's been rough for my 6yo, as it's his first pet loss. Just wanted to share, as awake at silly o'clock and feeling a bit sad.

OP posts:
tartyflette · 21/09/2025 01:40

I’m so sorry, she was a beloved family pet, and it was so sudden, of course you are very upset and your DS is so devastated.
Take time to grieve and remember little Norah, she will always be special to your family.

Esperanza25 · 21/09/2025 05:51

Aw, I’m sorry. We have had a lot of small pets over the years and have had this happen. It’s a shock and upsetting for you and your little boy. You’ve done the right thing getting another Guinea pig, they don’t like to be alone.
I think that ultimately, the only thing that helps is time. You will both get over it. It won’t feel quite as bad a month from now. It’s ok for your little boy to cry, he is dealing with the loss of his much loved pet and he won’t forget her.

Cinaferna · 21/09/2025 06:16

How upsetting. They are such cute, lovely creatures. And it's tough to see your son so sad.

If he's still upset, maybe help him do a memorial to her- a frame of photos of her or a little funeral. And help him get to know the new piggy.

TinaAC · 15/11/2025 23:39

Hi, how are things now? I hope your son has got over Norah's death by now and your two guinea pigs are getting along just fine.
It's always upsetting loosing an animal friend, no matter how small or how long they have been with us.
If you still need closure or advice, let me know.

HatStickBoots · 15/11/2025 23:52

So sorry for your loss… I feel your pain. We had lots of little rabbits and guinea pigs over the years (all rescues) and loved them all. One little one died suddenly and I discovered that DH had given him some leaves of rhubarb chard which is deadly poisonous, but he didn’t know. They’re all precious. I hope your little boy is starting to feel a bit better now.

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