Unit Twenty Two: Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs have a poor sense of:

Sight

What is true about malocclusion in guinea pigs?

It may occur with their molars as well as their incisors

T or F: Guinea pigs are born fully furred with eyes open.

True

Why do guinea pigs need to be fasted before procedures requiring pharyngeal intubation?

Guinea pigs will retain food in their mouths, interfering with the placement of the tube.

What are some possible complication of guinea pig pregnancy and parturition?

dystocia, toxemia, and spontaneous abortions/stillbirths

T or F: Cervical dislocation is an acceptable method of euthanasia in guinea pigs.

False

What enrichment do guinea pigs benefit from?

Enrichment that stimulates their urge to gnaw

How should a guinea pig’s sex be verified?

By pressing on the pelvic area

What is the proper handling of the guinea pig?

Guinea pigs may be carried using one hand under their front legs and chest, and the other hand supporting their rump.

What color is a Strain 13 guinea pig?

Tricolor

What are some common behaviors in guinea pigs?

“Freezing” in response to unfamiliar, sudden noises, barbering cagemates, and performing little hops in the air when excited.

Guinea pigs cannot synthesize ____, so it must be added to their feed.

Vitamin C

What are some typical signs of pain or distress in a guinea pig?

Emitting a loud squeal, biting a particular area of their body, and/or pacing.

Why should the dust content of guinea pig bedding be low?

Guinea pigs are susceptible to respiratory diseases