Guinea Pig Lice: Why Tea Tree Oil Is Toxic & Safe Treatment Options

⚠️ Never Use Tea Tree Oil on Guinea Pigs

Tea tree oil (melaleuca) contains terpenes (cineole, terpinen-4-ol) that cause neurotoxicity, hepatic necrosis, and death in small herbivores—even at low concentrations. Documented fatalities from dermal and inhalational exposure.

Safe, Veterinarian-Guided Protocol

1. Confirm diagnosis: Exotic vet examines for Gliricola porcelli (chewing louse) or Gyropus ovalis (sucking louse).
2. Prescribed treatment:
   • Topical selamectin (Revolution® puppy/kitten dose by weight) – single application, repeat 2–4 wks.
   • Or ivermectin 0.4 mg/kg SC q7d × 2–3 (vet-administered).
   • Or doramectin, moxidectin per vet.
3. Environmental decontamination:
   • Discard bedding; wash cage, hides, toys in hot water (≥60°C) + pet-safe disinfectant (accelerated hydrogen peroxide).
   • Freeze non-washables 72 hrs.
4. Isolate affected pig until 2 negative combings 1 wk apart.
5. Treat all in-contact guinea pigs simultaneously.
6. Follow-up exam at 2–4 weeks.

Supportive Care

• Vitamin C supplementation (critical for guinea pigs).
• High-fiber diet (timothy hay) to reduce stress.
• Minimize handling during treatment.

Exotic veterinarian = essential partner. No home remedies.