Reproductive diseases of guinea pigs

摘要

Guinea pigs are reproductively active as early as 2 months in the females and 3 months in the males. Females should be bred before 7 or 8 months of age to prevent narrowing of the pelvic symphysis and dystocia. Dystocia can also be caused by obesity, uterine inertia, and large fetal size (small litter size). Clinical signs of dystocia are prolonged contractions and straining. Pups are normally born quickly within approximately 30 minutes with a 5 minute resting period between pups. Therefore, a sow seen to be straining for over 60 minutes should be considered abnormal. Sows may become depressed after continued straining. A greenish brown or bloody mucoid discharge is often present. A partially extruded fetus may be seen in severe cases. Diagnosis is by history and clinical signs.