Guinea Pig Allergy Test

This IgE allergy test uses a blood sample to determine if you are allergic to Guinea Pig Epithelia (skin cells/tissue).

Guinea pigs (also called cavies) are often house pets in the Western world, but are also a domesticated food source in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia.

Many individuals believe they are allergic to their pet guinea pigs, when in fact more commonly they are allergic to the bedding of their cages. Timothy grass and hay is commonly used as bedding and sometimes as a digestive aid for small house pets like guinea pigs, gerbils and rabbits. If you suspect you are allergic to your little pets, consider our Timothy hay allergy test as well!

Guinea pig allergy symptoms may include:

• Eczema
• Conjunctivitis
• Asthma

Contrary to popular belief, a guinea pig allergy is not caused by their hair. It is usually caused by the proteins found in a guinea pig’s saliva or urine. It is important that those allergic to guinea pigs never clean a guinea pig’s cage, but have a friend do it for them.

Many who have a guinea pig allergy are still able to be happy guinea pig pet owners. There is immunotherapy (allergy shot) treatment that usually takes about 18 months to complete. This is considered the best option and actually cures the allergy itself (even for those with asthma). See a physician to determine if this is the right fit for you.