Guinea pigs are popular and easy to care for rodent pets, and make great companions for people.
Pregnant guinea pigs require extra calories during gestation. Therefore, extra hay and pellets must be provided to supply her with all she needs for sustenance.
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1. They’re not getting enough food
Guinea pigs are herbivores by nature, so providing fresh veggies daily should be sufficient. A cupful is usually enough for small guinea pigs.
Make sure that they get enough vitamin C by supplementing their pellets and hay with some dark/tough green leafy vegetables (rich in Vitamin C!), in addition to offering occasional servings of fruit.
As these treats contain seeds or dried fruits that do not provide essential nutrition for their care, and often high levels of sugar, these treats should be avoided as they could lead to obesity and digestive issues in guinea pigs.
2. They’re too weak
Guinea pigs generally produce an average litter of two to four cubs, which is generally smaller than some other rodent species. This may present problems when there are weaker piglets or orphans who require assistance.
However, there are ways you can prevent this. One is ensuring your guinea pig has plenty of food and water available – including alfalfa and timothy hay as needed.
Keep your guinea pig warm by providing it with a cozy space to rest. Guinea pigs can be particularly vulnerable during pregnancy and birth, so it’s crucial they have an intimate environment in which to rest their heads and relax.
3. They’re being chased away
Guinea pigs live in groups and possess a dominance hierarchy, so it’s natural for them to chase each other when bonding – this behavior serves as a way for them to communicate with one another and form social relationships.
They enjoy running in circles, following each other around their cages and exploring new toys together. Furthermore, they often sleep together and keep each other company.
Chattering is another common bonding behavior between guinea pigs. This occurs when one tells another they are boss or dislike something they are doing.
Pigs may begin lunging at each other, which is quite terrifying! If either pig bites the other or draws blood, it’s time for separation.
4. They’re stillborn
Guinea pigs sometimes give birth to stillborn offspring that won’t normally be eaten. If their mother displays signs of acute pinning or lethargy after giving birth, however, she should be taken immediately to a veterinarian for evaluation.
Pregnant sows usually experience rapid weight gains during gestation. Make sure your guinea pigs do not become borderline vitamin C deficient during this stage as their vitamin needs increase significantly during this time.
Female guinea pigs become estrous three to four times annually and can remain in an estrous cycle for 16 days at a time. Boars reach sexual maturity between 56 to 70 days of age while sows at around 67 days of age.
5. They’re confused
Introduce new guinea pigs with care; it may take them time to adapt. You should give them extra encouragement and pay special attention as you help them settle into their new surroundings.
Guinea pigs produce various vocalizations to communicate with one another and humans, including chutts, squeaks, whines and whistles.
Facial expressions also play an integral part in conveying their emotions – making for fascinating viewing!
As part of your care for guinea pigs, always ensure they’re getting enough food. If they seem weak or seem struggling with nutrition issues, this could be a telltale sign of health issues which need treating before keeping your pets.