http://vetmedicine.about.com/library/we ... 71300a.htm
Guinea pigs don't get hot spots like dogs do (biting, licking, worrying). They may bite the area if they have mites but there really is no "licking" and worrying that goes on.
The hot spots dogs get described on this site can be caused by a variety of things. If it is mites (I'll pick that because it's the primary cause of a self inflicted injury in a guinea pig), they must be treated. This site recommends treating dog hot spots by:
- Shaving the area. The first treatment for hot spots is to dry them out and get air to the area. Hair loss is a feature of hot spots, but hair can also mat over the inflamed area, covering up a potentially much more severe and large problem.
- Cleansing it with cool water and a gentle skin cleanser.
- Using a cool compress 2-4 times a day with a cool wet washcloth.
- Medications - Depending on the severity and size of the hot spot, your veterinarian may prescribe oral antibiotics, topical drying sprays or medications, and/or special shampoos.
- Prevent the animal from licking, biting, scratching by using an Elizabethan collar
- Additional home remedies they recommend until you can see your vet:
- Tea bag compresses (black or green tea) to aid in drying the area. Tea can be used as a wash or as a compress.
- They also recommend Domeboro's (Burow's) solution (aluminum acetate) -- used as a compress or as a spray. This is supposedly available over-the-counter at pharmacies and is used to help dry the skin out [this product is also used for an animal experiencing urinary incontinence].
- Hydrocortisone creams - Some people advocate using a thin film of an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. I would recommend talking to your vet first -- in general, creams and ointments only serve to "gunk up" the area and prevent proper drying if used incorrectly. Also, if the pet licks it, you want to make sure that it isn't toxic.