How to Diagnose Pregnancy in a Guinea Pig
A pregnant guinea pig requires a great deal of special attention. If you should rescue a sow in questionable health, it's important to be able to diagnose pregnancy in a guinea pig so she can receive the best possible care.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Examine the sow's nipples. A pregnant female's nipples often distend further than normal.
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2
Observe the sow for a rotund appearance. In later stages of pregnancy, she'll have bumpy outlines visible.
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3
Rest your hand lightly on the female's abdomen when she's relaxed and having nap time. You may feel movement from the babies inside. Take care not to poke, prod or squeeze, as you can cause harm. Only veterinarians skilled in cavy care are qualified to give physical exams to pregnant cavies.
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4
Pay attention to the consumption of drinking water. A pregnant guinea pig often drinks more water than one who is not pregnant.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Get your sow to an experienced vet as soon as you can. Pregnancy needs a proper diagnosis and medical care.
Guinea pigs can mate at a very young age. Always keep sows and boars in separate quarters unless the male receives an alteration by a qualified veterinarian.
Never breed guinea pigs on purpose. Not only are shelters teeming with an overpopulation of unwanted animals, but guinea pigs also have a high mortality rate of both mother and pups. You risk losing a cherished pet and her babies by breeding her. If you want young guinea pigs, use animal shelters to obtain unwanted babies.
