荷兰猪养殖：宠物主人必知注意事项

Section 1: The Breeding Process of Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs typically give birth at night, with only a rare few delivering during the day. As a result, pet owners must be extra vigilant during the final stages of pregnancy, staying awake through the night to ensure they don't miss the birthing window and can provide timely care. While most guinea pigs can manage the birthing process on their own, requiring minimal assistance, it's important for owners not to overstep and constantly check on the mother, as this could potentially distress her. However, in some cases, guinea pigs may experience prolonged labor or dystocia, necessitating prompt intervention from the owner.

In the event that the guinea pig encounters difficulties during labor, such as stillbirths, dystocia, or the inability to sever the umbilical cord after giving birth, the owner must step in to assist without causing undue stress to the animal.

Under normal circumstances, the mother guinea pig will bite the umbilical cord herself after giving birth, and she will then clean each of her piglets by licking them thoroughly to remove any dirt. She will also clean her own bloodstains and quickly seek water and food to replenish her energy. The newborn piglets will open their eyes shortly after birth and instinctively locate the mother's teats to nurse. Some piglets may be able to nibble on hay or other feed within two hours, but most will wait until two days postbirth to do so.

Section 2: Pre and PostBirth Care for Guinea Pig Dams

1. After becoming pregnant, guinea pig dams have an increased appetite, often doubling their normal food intake. It's crucial for owners to adjust their feeding accordingly.

2. As the due date approaches, ensure that the mother guinea pig has access to ample water and food. Giving birth is a taxing and painful process that demands a significant amount of energy, so having water and food readily available can help the mother quench her thirst postdelivery and prevent her from inadvertently eating her offspring due to thirst.

Dr. OxygenPet has outlined the key considerations for guinea pig breeding, hoping that these tips will help pet owners prepare adequately for the birthing process of their guinea pig dams.