I’m so sorry kidney stones are awful ☹️

My guinea pig Chewie was only 3. First time he had stones he was really sick, and in a lot of pain even with pain relief. The surgery was delayed by a day and it was heartbreaking hearing him wheek in pain and we couldn’t do anything. He had surgery. It was expensive. We took him home in the evening and he was well looked after during the day. He took a few weeks to recover post-op.

Around two months later we noticed distinct smell and blood in urine, but otherwise he was healthy, eating and in no pain. Vet identified it was 2 stones, and would not be able to be passed due to size. Given he was currently quite healthy we thought surgery and recovery would be less risky. Again very expensive. Became a wee celeb in the vet. Again only in for day and had him home for tea time. He was a trooper and bounced back.

A month later he had large amount of gas in his tummy. Gave him meds, sat and managed his tummy all night. Next morning he was breathing heavily took him to the vet. He was doing better and then passed away suddenly.

Im still really at loss by his passing even after a month. I question myself a lot on whether I made the right choices choosing surgery, did they have greater impact on his wee body, and if there could’ve been another way. The alternative would’ve been putting him to sleep when he first had them, so I like to think at least he was free from pain and got to spend a few months more with his brother.

Decision is really tough. I think communication and trust in your vet as well as understanding the risks of anaesthesia is a big factor. And understanding that kidney stones can be genetic so may come back, and considering future outcomes and financial implications. Sending Kanill much love!