10/12/2026
👑🫛 The Prince and the Pea 🫛👑
This little piggie presented to Dr. Beckner after his owners noticed some changes to his eyes. On physical exam, some pink conjunctival tissue could be seen protruding from the lower eyelid on both eyes - can you see it in the photo?
Fortunately, in guinea pigs, this is typically nothing to worry about - it’s most often a benign condition called Pea Eye, which is caused by excess fat deposits building up and causing some of the conjunctiva to protrude out from the eyelid. In *extremely* rare cases, it can be caused by other, more serious underlying factors; but 99+% of cases are simply due to increased fatty buildup. Genetics can also come into play, making certain piggies more prone to developing this condition than others.
The best way to prevent this condition is via feeding an appropriate diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and allowing for appropriate activity levels. Once pea eye occurs, it’s very unlikely that it will go away, and there’s no treatment. Fortunately, as long as there isn’t an underlying health cause, it doesn’t hurt them nor affect their day-to-day life. While this condition doesn’t cause pain in and of itself, it’s still a condition that warrants a veterinary check. A checkup will ensure that there aren’t underlying health issues that need to be addressed, and/or verify that a separate eye condition isn’t going on.
Dr. Beckner discussed an appropriate diet and husbandry plan for home care, and his owners will keep us up-to-date with how he and his brother continue to grow and flourish.
Do you have any questions or concerns regarding your exotic pet? Or, would you like a consultation to ensure your pet is healthy and having diet and husbandry needs met? Call us at (904)824-8123 to book them in for an appointment! 🐰🦜🐹🐢🐭🦔
