BASIC HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS (cont)
Animals must be observed and cared for every day including weekends and holidays. Emergency veterinary care must be available after work hours, on weekends and on holidays. Any signs of disease should be reported to the animal care supervisor or the attending veterinarian.
Some common problems and diseases of guinea pigs include;
- Dystocia is a common occurrence in females bred for the first time after six months of age. The symphysis pubis fuses prior to six months leaving the pelvic inlet too small for the passage of term fetuses. Breeding at 3-5 months will normally prevent this problem.
- Pregnancy toxemia or ketosis occurs a few days prior to parturition. This is a metabolic disorder and is believed to be caused by stress and obesity.