Symptoms & Care Tips for Dutch Bunny Pregnancy: What to

Section 1: Symptoms of a Pregnant Guinea Pig

1. Female guinea pigs mature rapidly, often becoming fertile as early as 3 months of age. During pregnancy, they can become quite irritable and may even quarrel with male guinea pigs. It's crucial for pet owners to isolate a pregnant guinea pig immediately upon discovery to prevent any harm from other pets.

2. A pregnant guinea pig's appetite will dramatically increase, sometimes doubling her usual food intake, and she may continue to eat more. She might also exhibit restless behavior and a tendency to chew on her cage.

3. The belly of a pregnant guinea pig will visibly expand, typically becoming noticeable around the 15th day of pregnancy. However, some may not show pregnancy until later, especially if the litter size is small or if the guinea pig is particularly plump, so careful observation is key.

4. Pregnant guinea pigs are particularly sensitive to having their bellies touched. They may cry out loudly or even bite if touched. Towards the end of her pregnancy, she may become more docile, with reduced activity and a preference for keeping away from males.

5. The nipples of a pregnant guinea pig will significantly enlarge, often doubling in size from their prepregnancy state.

6. Pregnant guinea pigs often prefer to sleep on their sides for a more comfortable rest.

7. If a nesting box is provided in her cage, she may carry wood shavings around and eventually pile them in the box or another chosen spot. She may also store food in her cheek pouches, regurgitating it in places she considers suitable for nesting. In some cases, if she's unsatisfied with the cage, she might build her own nest. In such instances, pet owners can offer her crumpled, soft, and odorless tissue paper.

Section 2: Precautions During Pregnancy

1. Avoid Bathing

Given that most guinea pig cages are spacious and wellmaintained, regular bathing is unnecessary. Typically, a bath is given before breeding, but during pregnancy, it's best to avoid bathing altogether. If a bath is necessary due to dirt, ensure the water temperature is adjusted properly. For localized dirt, a gentle wash with warm water is sufficient.

2. Distinguishing Pregnancy from Obesity

Some pet owners might mistake a guinea pig's weight gain for pregnancy. To differentiate between the two, note that in obesity, the belly is soft and elastic, whereas in pregnancy, the belly feels firm and the skin is taut. When checking, be gentle and avoid pressing to prevent harm to the developing babies.

With this guide to the symptoms of a pregnant guinea pig and the necessary precautions, we hope to provide you with helpful information and wish you a smooth journey into motherhood for your guinea pig family.