Is guinea pig breeding safe? Although breeding these endearing animals is not hard, it could be dangerous if you don’t plan it well. To prevent catastrophe, female guinea pigs or sows must be young and healthy before becoming pregnant for the first time.
Table of Contents
The Dangers of First-time Guinea Pig Breeding
Postponing a woman’s first pregnancy after she turns six months old will lead to significant, potentially fatal childbirth difficulties. Before having a baby, part of its pelvis must divide; beyond around eight months, it fuses, necessitating a cesarean. Mom and her piglets are at risk because of this. Pregnancy toxemia is another critical concern, and anxiety and obesity are two of its main risk factors.
Other contributing variables include being older, not exercising, fasting when pregnant, and having many children. Prevention is better than cure:
- Lessen anxiety.
- Maintain your guinea pig active and healthy.
- Offer a balanced diet.
- Constantly supply fresh water.
Symptoms may only appear two weeks before the delivery. Additionally, keep it inside or protected to minimize hazards from the cold.
Guinea pigs have a 63-day gestation period on the median. A veterinarian must examine the guinea pig immediately if the gestation period exceeds 70 days, as the whole litter is sure to be stillborn. The female guinea pig, like many rodents, will be capable of mating shortly after giving birth, but this shouldn’t be permitted because she requires time to heal and replenish her metabolic resources before getting pregnant again.
Because guinea pigs only have two nipples to suckle their young, if your sow produces a big litter, you might want to try fostering a few of the piglets to another sow.
The Babies
Guinea pig infants arrive early compared to other rodent species. As a result, when delivered, they look and act precisely like adults—squeak and have hair and teeth. They consume colostrum by nursing for the first few days but also consume ample pig food, like grass, soon after birth.
Obstetrical Complications
You have a decent likelihood of having a healthy pregnancy and delivery if you get pregnant by five to six months of age. However, suppose a sow is bred later in time, intentionally or accidentally. You may have to conduct a C-section on the sow to remove the piglets because her pubic region has fused.
Pregnant sows frequently exhibit mastitis, toxemia (eclampsia), hypocalcemia (low calcium), and uterine prolapse. As a result, it’s crucial to keep an eye on your pig’s appetite, stools, and behavior and to take her to the vet as soon as you suspect anything could be amiss.
Breeding Principles
If you choose to breed your guinea pigs, you should be ready to provide for the offspring if you cannot sell them. They fall under your care. You should also agree to bring back any animals you sell if the new owners cannot care for them as a reputable breeder.
Guinea pig breeding may be enjoyable and rewarding. If you follow our advice, you will always be able to raise these young piglets. If you need more supplies, visit gordotheguinea.
