There are several different causes for head tilt in guinea pigs. Whatever the cause, the result is the same a loss of balance or vestibular disease. Guinea pigs with a head tilt experience dizziness very similar to people experiencing vertigo. Vestibular diseases can be categorized into (1) peripheral vestibular disease, (2) central vestibular disease, or (3) both. Peripheral vestibular disease is when the problem is within the inner ear and can be caused by middle and internal ear infections or medications that are toxic to the inner ear. Central vestibular disease happens when something affects the part of the brain associated with balance. Causes of central vestibular disease include infection with bacteria, fungi, or parasites in the brain itself or a vascular event like an aneurysm or stroke (less common). Both peripheral and central vestibular disease can be caused by either trauma or tumors.
Your veterinarian may recommend radiographs to assess for trauma and evaluate the inner ear, bacterial culture, and a complete blood count and serum biochemistry panel.
Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause of the head tilt. Meclizine may be prescribed to help with disorientation and dizziness. Supportive care is important and may involve assist feeding, subcutaneous fluids, anti-inflammatory medications, and anti-nausea medications. If the head tilt is caused by an ear infection, antibiotics may also be prescribed.
The patient’s prognosis will be dependent on cause. Head tilts may be permanent even if primary cause is treated due to permanent damage to the inner ear or vestibular nerve.
A recheck examination is recommended in 7-14 days or sooner if the patient is not doing better. Additional rechecks may be recommended depending on the patient’s response to treatment and underlying cause.
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