It is important that a sick cavy be kept in a room where the temperature is warm, and constant. Provide plenty of hay for insulation, and take extra care in protecting the guinea pig from drafts. If a guinea pig has respiratory difficulties, some owners will line the cage with a eucalyptus-based product, such as Vick's VapoRub . Though this won't cure any infections, it will relieve the symptoms somewhat. You can also apply a little bit of eucalyptus oil on their nose and their fore paws, but don't put it directly on their fur.
Sticky fur makes a guinea pig miserable.
Applying it to their feet, however, will result in their re-applying the eucalyptus if and when they try to rub it off their nose, and is a good trick for keeping the ointment where it will be most effective. Last, don't make any major diet changes while your guinea pig is ill. Stability and an established routine will keep stress levels down, and make the cavy more comfortable. If your guinea pig isn't eating at all, then you should contact your vet right away. Symptoms and ailments We'll focus this discussion on symptoms, since that is where most people begin when they suspect that their guinea pig is ill.