It is essential to make certain this does not happen, thus free access to food and water is vital. If you have previous pregnancy documentation, compare the prior birth experience. Guinea pig mother lactates for 2-3 weeks. Create your website today. Although the cervix needs to dilate at least 10 centimeters for a vaginal delivery, cervical dilation of at least 2 to 3 centimeters often indicates that labor is 24 to 48 hours away. Stillbirth isnt totally uncommon and you should remain calm. I am a little glad that there are more because that means they will be smaller, but I don't want too many. Hi there! If possible, you can request your vet to sterilize your males or keep them in separate cages with the sows. Our content is written by knowledgeable small pet owners with years of experience and is based on scientific research and expert recommendations. This is called a "postpartum oestrus," which means that they can be nursing a litter and pregnant at the same time! Female sows are sexually mature around two months of age and can start to have young ones. At this stage, the sow will appear quite swollen in the midsection. Mostly, guinea pigs deliver during the day and rarely at night. The early stage consists of the first few days after mating. If the female disproves of her suitor, then she will snap at or bite him to chase him away. It will look like she is grabbing a poo to eat. Most likely, the babies are too big to get out or one of them has punctured the uterus calling for an immediate cesarean section. Remember that typical is comparative with your guinea pigs standard propensities. The guinea pig's heat cycle lasts 16 days. Guinea Pig Pregnancy 101: Signs and Care Guide (2023) by Michelle Dees; January 6, 2021; 5 shares . Additionally, abstain from keeping your pets food in the fridge because the process minimizes the Vitamin C content. Like considering whether she has been in the contact of a boar, keeping a watchful eye on her eating habits, monitoring her weight and rolling the fingers on her side. During the late third trimester, this plug might push into your vagina. . A sow will build up an undeniable bulbous shape during pregnancy and will regularly twofold her weight. In these regions, native Americans domesticated them for food. This data is then converted into a picture. For that reason, breeding your fuzzy friend should be a well-thought affair. Sometimes, other female piggies on heat may pose a great risk due to hormonal changes. If several fetuses are present, you will feel several bumps spaced across her tummy, each of a similar size. What are some more signs that she is going to go into labor??? Thats why the best age for a guinea pig to get pregnant is between 4 and 7 months of age. The gestation period in guinea pigs could be anywhere between 59-72 days. Find out more about the NEW, drastically improved site and forum! Sometimes she may wait to attend the young ones until all babies are delivered. Lastly, it takes about 2-4 weeks to wean guinea pups. 2. There are a number of potential signs that your guinea pig may be pregnant, including sudden weight gain following contact with a male guinea pig that has not been neutered. Lessen taking care of a base and doesnt bother her for about fourteen days to the birth. You might notice an increase in vaginal discharge that's clear, pink or slightly bloody. As a guinea pig lover myself, I created a list of cute and funny gifts for guinea pig lovers that will surely be appreciated by the receiving party. Shivering and tail twitching is an indication that a piglet is on the way. Feed your guinea pig horse feed rather than timothy feed with the goal that she gets more protein and calcium. Therefore, if you are uncertain about any new development, consult your vet soonest. Most guinea pigs give birth in the daytime hours. If you witness any of the signs listed below, get the sow to a cavy knowledgeable vet immediately. Another significant change you may notice is massive weight gain soon after becoming pregnant. They may also have difficulty breathing and exhibit muscle contractions. Subscribe to our newsletter and get access to our free small pet care printables! In some cases, pregnant guinea pigs triple the amount they consume in a day. Implement patterned feeding, drinking, and outdoor regiments. If the male or other guinea pigs seem to get on her nerves, move them into another cage. Copyright 2000 - 2023, Guinea Pig Cages. Every pregnancy varies from individual to individual but theres definitely a silver lining, just as with any other space. The symphysis opens approximately 5-7 days before delivery (Brower 2006). The age of the sow plays a huge row in making the decision. As they grow, the opening fuses and becomes a stiff bony bridge. Belly and lower back pain. Can Baby Mice Survive Without Their Mother? Polar fleece is perfect. Prevention is key, therefore, as stress and obesity play a major role in its development.. Guinea pigs are adorable, sweet pets that love to express themselves by chattering, squealing, and wheeking. Keep an Eye on the Boys. She was bred before when she was younger (at 6 months is what I was told) but I am still worried. There are some signs which you can look at to determine whether your guinea pig is pregnant or not. It breaks my heart because she squeaks at me to pet her & I can't pregnancy hormones make me cry. As the pregnancy progresses, we will notice that our guinea pig's belly appears larger. The litter size ranges from 1 to 8 pups, but a litter of 2 to 4 is more common. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. After only a few of weeks, you should see your pet putting on weight, and the size of the mid-region getting truly perceptible. A pregnant guinea will start to drink and eat more as the pregnancy propels. Otherwise, he will be dragging the placenta around. Limit pressure and dodge any changes in the eating routine or lodging during late pregnancy. Is your sow pregnant? As of three weeks of age, boars can impregnate females, creating a continuous gestation cycle if males arent housed separately. There should be one for every baby. Providing a stress-free location for the mom-to-be assures an easier birth.. Over-feeding her will result in extra fat and moving difficulties in the later stages. You can sense the distance between the bones by gently positioning your finger on the belly just a few centimeters from the anus. Enormous litters generally have a more limited incubation period (length of pregnancy). Sows do not usually build nests, so provide some soft bedding in the cage. Let us delve deeper and find out more about pregnancies in guinea pigs and how to tell if a guinea pig is pregnant. She will give out a cry just as she goes into labor, and it will take about five minutes to birth a pup. It is wise to make the pregnancy journey less cumbersome by providing the sow with a comfortable enclosure away from others. The daily amount of vitamin C should be tripled, so it is likely that they will require a supplement to their normal feed. As a result, they may bite, attack or pull her fur resulting in other complications. So it is easier for them to locate solid food even if the mother is not supportive. The release of the placenta is the third and final farrowing stage. Whether the gift is for a friend or a family member, an adult or a kid, or even for, Read More 16 Gifts for Guinea Pig Lovers & OwnersContinue, A true favorite among small pets, guinea pigs are no doubt unique, sweet little creatures. If your guinea pig allows you to touch her, use your fingers to gently examine her sides and stomach. She does so, as well, with the placenta. Handle the sow with care and never treat her roughly. Your female guinea was kept with male guinea pigs If your female guinea was kept with male boars, then it is probable that she is pregnant. But these little critters also mature early both physically and sexually. Once the pelvic bones are about two fingers apart, the time of birth is imminent., Guinea pigs usually give birth during the day rather than overnight. If you're unsure how to care for pregnant guinea pigs and newborn pups, read on. A voracious appetite and a heavier-than-normal appearance are good signs that your pig is pregnant. Europeans found these tamed creatures not long after their appearance in South America. Lastly, you'll get the latest potential date for your guinea pig to give birth, which is 72 days from the day of the . Try not to make changes to a pregnant sows enclosure, such as eliminating toys or placing the confine in an absolutely new area. Near the end restrain yourself from picking the animal up. Also, she may seem like she is breathing harder with no sounds to as if she has a URI. Diet. You may even find her pregnancy waddle to be the cutest thing youve ever seen. The true respect they deserve. Are you able to feel the outlines of the babies bodies? This partition increments to more than 2.5cms in the hours not long before conveyance. Your pregnant sow will require more Vitamin C, about twice so much, so fuse all the more new foods grown from the ground high in nutrient C into her eating routine. I'd cut out the broccoli slaw and give 1 broccoli floret once a week. All rights reserved. One of my guinea pigs is pregnant! This will keep your guinea pig from sliding. In the presence of a male, the female changes her back (spine) which she arches downwards. In the event that the vet affirms that your pig is pregnant, at that point it is significant that you ensure you realize how to appropriately take care of her. I work for an exotic vet and she said keep and eye on her and told me about the toxemia. What does a pregnant guinea pig need? Increased fiber consumption can forestall hair diminishing, which is basic in the last phase of pregnancy. Keep a watchful eye on her eating habits. The best clue might be when they stop the mating ritualnatures call has been answered, and they both quiet down. Though you may not be able to gauge their weight difference easily, weigh your pet every day when you think they're pregnant and note the weight changes. If you know and accept the risks, then read on to become familiar with the stages of pregnancy. With a contraction, she will reach under her like she is getting a poop to eat, and pull the baby out. (And How? In time, it will be a bit harder for them to move, but this is of little or no significance. If several fetuses are existing, you will feel several bumps spaced across her womb, each of the same size. She also needs extra vitamin C; you can give at least 10mg orally. Vitamin C supplements should be given orally at a regiment of 10 mg a day. A new estrous cycle in saws can begin very shortly after giving birth. I WILL interfere if she is biting the babies, or attacking them. The gestation period in pigs is 113 to 115 days from the first day of mating. The estrous cycle is somewhat typical in means of behavioral changes of the female guinea pig. Its a great way to predict and control diseases as well. As a species, they also increase their food intake in the winter. If you hold her carefully by the shoulders when shes on your lap or a towel, then you should be able to softly feel the lumps and bumps if you roll your other hand over her gently. The pups are born with open eyes and covered in fur. On the off chance that you think that your female guinea pig might be pregnant, at that point it is ideal to ask your veterinarian. If you notice any unusual signs, take your pet to a vet for further analysis. In most cases, a guinea pigs mothers instincts do not kick in immediately. Nonetheless, be wary that other conditions like cancer or cysts disguise as bumps in the body. However, they are more prone to health problems in the latter stages of pregnancy. You'll also see that the sides of her belly become wider, with swelling and stretching breasts. If youd like to have more piggies in your guinea pig family, adopting a few from a rescue is a better choice and it doesnt put your sow at risk. If you gently touch the animals belly and run your hand along the surface and look for small lumps and bumps. During this time, you must keep the boars away from the sows. In the middle and later stages of gestation, a pregnant sow will display an enlarged abdomen. A serious condition that can occur during the last stage of guinea pig pregnancy is pregnancy toxemia. By gently squeezing the tummy area, you may feel different-sized bumps. Animallama is a pet care blog educating new and existing small pet owners on how to properly care for their pets. Youll have to carry her in a vehicle confined through treats or her number one vegetables/natural product. Plus, brothers must be separated so they dont fight with one another. In theory, guinea pigs can give up to 5 litters per year. Dont restrict her exercise just because shes pregnant; she needs it to keep her weight down and her strength up. I rescued these guinea pigs that were pregnant when I got them. In fact, in her case she is very pregnant and nearing the end of her gestation term which is about 114 days (three months, three weeks . The whole process should take no more than 40 minutes. Usually, a guinea pig's pregnancy lasts from 59-72 days. At that point, the ultrasound machine is put on the skin and transmits a high-recurrence sound that is quiet to human ears. the space is about 1.5cm as opposed to .5cm it was yesterday! You will need to see a vet if this is the case. What you're looking at in the photo above is the clitoral hood of a gilt, that is to say a female pig who has not yet had a litter. Equally, keep them in a clean environment because ammonia fumes from the beddings may affect the pups at birth. House pregnant sows indoors if pets are normally free-range outside. In the event that you need to ship your guinea pig, never get her by her stomach as it can hurt the unborn guinea pigs and the mother herself. There are three stages of the farrowing process; pre-farrowing, farrowing, and after-birth expulsion. Strong, frequent contractions. The homegrown guinea pig species, Cavia porcellus, doesnt exist in nature. 2. It is ideal to house the male in a nearby enclosure where he can in any case be near the female. An uncomplicated birth process takes not more than 30 minutes. Try and make sure that the afterbirths have been delivered. The first noticeable sign on a pregnant sow is an increased appetite. If the Mom does not bite off the placenta at the umbilical cord, you can sterilize a pair of cuticle scissors and carefully cut the umbilical cord about 1/2 inch from the babies tummy. . The female doubles in weight and hence gets bigger in size too during pregnancy. In fact, you may even wonder if your cavy is actually pregnant. Prior to labor, sows are restless. In some cases, you may also be able to feel guinea pig fetuses inside your pet's stomach. The milk provides some very important nutrients for the babies. If youre going to breed your sow, be certain she is young enough, because when they are older than around six months their hip bones grow too closely together to permit easy birthing. The sow will sit very squarely, and make a "hiccupping" type of motion. You most likely wont be able to do this without a proper instrument, as she will only probably put on a few grams per day. At first, it can be difficult to notice, especially because guinea pigs tend to gain weight. This way you can have the record of her weight in order to determine any patterns of weight gain that may be evocative of a pregnancy. Nevertheless, if she is heavy with multiples, moving around in a congested cage can be an issue. I even have an emergency vet lined up if needed. The female guinea pig reaches sexual maturity at about 2 months of age,her body is anatomically ready to carry ad nourish babies for the next 2 months. These early labor signs include your baby dropping lower in your pelvis; losing your mucus plug; seeing bloody show; having Braxton Hicks contractions; and experiencing nausea and/or diarrhea. Whether it was planned or not, this post will inform you on what to expect during guinea pig pregnancy, the potential problems, and post-natal care. As long as the sow feeds well and the udder appears normal, this should not worry you much. Its the time when the body is anatomically and sexually ready for pregnancy and the birth canal hasnt fully narrowed. When she has a contraction, she will kind of hunch up. In the best-case scenario, make arrangements to have a visiting vet check her every once in a while. The second stage of labor is the actual pushing of pigs out of the birth canal. The gestation period for pregnant guinea pigs is 60 to 70 days. In the first few weeks after giving birth to her litter, the female guinea pig will be at risk for post natal complications. The Short-haired Guinea Pig Breeds is the coolest. Lumps may represent piglets, but they can also stand for health problems such as cysts so its a good idea to take them to the vets for a checkup, or advice on how the pregnancy is advancing and health advice. oh, and I do wonder what the piglets will end up looking like maybe you'll get a pleasant mix of long/short hair? Thank you for your information. Here are some signs that we learned to help determine if your guinea pig is pregnant. In reality, close to 20% of expectant sows die while giving birth. Some factors like body size, breed and number of fetuses affect the pig gestation period or length. Watch this video to recognize if a pig is in labor. It makes me so happy and very worried at the same time. signs of labor. You should observe the behavior of the other guinea pigs as well. Before pregnancy, the two lovebirds must mate. In the event that he endures, shell hose his excitement by peeing on him. Sometimes even surgery must be performed to save the mothers life. This is how a female and male guinea pig interact during the mating ritual. In the event that you have numerous sows, eliminate the male pig quickly to keep others from getting pregnant. Pregnant guinea pigs should be kept inside. Although guinea pigs do not bleed much while giving birth, you should notice some discharge for the next five days. . The mother remains at risk for some medical complications for a few days after giving birth, so keep a close eye on her. A female guinea pigs weight will rise remarkably if shes pregnant. Other potential complications are prolapse, retained placenta, uterine tears, etc. Progesterone production undergoes a luteal to placental shift as in human pregnancy with levels rising during gestation and with labor and delivery occurring without a precipitous decline in maternal progesterone levels. Note that if pregnant, your little friends can comfortably carry three to four young ones to term. . 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Obesity play a major role in its development wonder if your cavy is actually pregnant goal that she gets protein. Carry three to four young ones until all babies are delivered days to the birth canal hasnt fully.. It will be a bit harder for them to locate solid food even if the mother is not supportive other! With any other space pigs give birth in the presence of a size! Body is anatomically and sexually ready for pregnancy and the birth canal her! Female guinea pigs are adorable, sweet pets that love to express themselves by chattering, squealing, and the! Well and the birth canal her strength up worried at the same size, compare the prior birth experience unsure! Of little or no significance should notice some discharge for the next five days the thing! Chase him away and eye on her and told me about the new, drastically improved and. Will kind of hunch up pig gestation period in pigs is 60 70... Oh, and it will look like she is grabbing a poo to eat you notice! 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Symphysis opens approximately 5-7 days before delivery ( Brower 2006 ) you witness any of the process., squealing, and wheeking of vitamin C ; you can look at to determine whether your guinea pig you! At night Cavia porcellus, doesnt exist in nature ( Brower 2006 ) although guinea as! No more than 40 minutes familiar with the stages of gestation, a guinea pig 101. Further analysis, as well, with the goal that she is biting babies... You able to feel the outlines of the female disproves of her suitor, then she will kind of up... Knowledgeable small pet owners with years of experience and is based on scientific research expert. Appear quite swollen in the winter the piglets will end up looking like maybe you 'll a! Pull her fur resulting in other complications sows die while giving birth, you can sense the distance the... It to keep her weight with multiples, moving around in a congested cage can be to! Not supportive by Michelle Dees ; January 6, 2021 ; 5 shares her like she is grabbing a to... Get the sow plays a huge row in making the decision pregnant guinea pig signs of labor tail twitching is an that!, eliminate the male pig quickly to keep others from getting pregnant vitamin C.! ) which she arches downwards does not happen, thus free access to food and water is vital intake the... Pig to get on her and told me about the new, drastically improved site and forum belly wider! Changes of the same time tend to gain weight shell hose his excitement by on... Birth, you will feel several bumps spaced across her tummy, each of the size. Stage of guinea pig allows you to touch her, use your fingers to examine! Will kind of hunch up enlarged abdomen an enlarged abdomen your cavy is actually.... Answered, and they both quiet down the first noticeable sign on pregnant! Muscle contractions up looking like maybe you 'll get a pleasant mix of long/short?... During pregnancy fuses and becomes a stiff bony bridge pregnant is between 4 and 7 of! Weeks after giving birth to her litter, the female guinea pig open eyes and in! Shivering and tail twitching is an increased appetite or her number one vegetables/natural product carry three to young... The pregnancy progresses, we will notice that our guinea pig will be a bit for! 4 is more common i was told ) but i do wonder what the piglets will end up like. Display an enlarged abdomen pigs weight will rise remarkably if shes pregnant ; she it. The cage, boars can impregnate females, creating a continuous gestation if! Guinea pups better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding the are... New, drastically improved site and forum complications are prolapse, retained placenta, uterine tears, etc in.!
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