Cavyhealth
← Guinea pig care guide

My guinea pig's urine looks red — is it blood?

Short answer: plant pigments can turn urine orange-red, but bright red spots, crying or hunching while peeing, or frequent straining need an exotic-pet vet the same day.

1. Check on white pads — pigment is usually even orange-red and browns as it dries; blood tends to be patchy and bright red.

2. Watch how they pee — vocalising, hunching or straining without passing urine is urgent.

3. White gritty residue — guinea pig urine is naturally calcium-rich; heavy sludge or grit should be discussed with a vet.

4. Water — keep fresh water available at all times alongside fresh vegetables.

5. Balanced diet — timothy hay as the base; calcium-rich alfalfa is not recommended in large amounts for adults.

6. Take a photo of the pad to show your vet.

👉 Watch the video: https://youtu.be/fd6FbJTnyNQ

※ The care guidelines on this site are for general daily husbandry and nutritional management only and do not constitute veterinary medical diagnosis. If your pet shows lethargy, appetite loss, or any sign of illness, consult a certified exotic-pet veterinarian immediately.