Monk

Monk’s Condition

Satin syndrome is a serious condition in guinea pigs caused by a genetic defect often found in satin-coated breeds, which gives their fur a shiny, glossy appearance. This syndrome is linked to metabolic bone disease (MBD), a disorder where calcium is not properly absorbed, leading to brittle, deformed bones, dental problems, lameness, and pain. MBD also leads piggies to develop Fibrous osteodystrophy, caused by the lack of calcium absorption. Affected guinea pigs may have trouble moving, eating, or maintaining weight. While there is no cure, their health can be supported by providing access to UVB light to aid vitamin D synthesis, offering calcium and bone-strengthening supplements under veterinary guidance, and modifying their habitat to reduce injury—such as avoiding ledges, ramps, or high platforms to prevent bone fractures.
For Monk, this condition meant he ate a daily bone supplement, ate his dinner under a UV lamp, and have a cage without high ledges. Monk lived like any other guinea pig, enjoying his veggies, hay, and 2 friends (Monk was a part of a rare 3 male trio, with his buddies Chunk and Chocolate). Monk was also very smart; he learned to do a spin for his bone supplement.

Monk always loved to lounge out in the open, sometimes fully resting on his side.

Monk enjoying veggies with his friends.

Sadly, Monk passed away (10/31/24) because of cancerous tumors in his lungs. He was loved until the very end, and is remembered by both his foster family and his friends.