wet guinea-pig

Question
QUESTION: I have 3 guinea pigs, 2 older females and the youngest is male. The male was living in a separate cage until he recently had a vasectomy in March 2008. He now lives with the females. Since moving in, the females' behinds have become matted and is always soaking wet. It is usually wet from their belly to their legs and at the base of their backs. They live in a reasonably sized cage and run around outside regularly. They are all long-haired but I have been trying to keep their hair short to help this problem. Any ideas?

ANSWER: Hi
the only thing I can think of is that your male could be mounting them to show he is the boss despite missing his bits. If he annoys the girls too much they will spray him to warn him to keep his distance. It could be the stuff they spray that is making them wet.


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you that was very helpful, it has put my mind at ease. However, is this harmful to my female pigs and is there any way to prevent it? They are quite wet so I am worried about their skin. Actually, my pig has been neutered not had a vascectomy - is there a difference? Thank you.

Answer
Hi
no it will not harm your girls at all and the male will settle down after a while.
You can dry their hair off with a paper towel if you are worried but I think they are ok.
If you are still concerned please take the girls to a vet just for a little check up and see what he says.
Mary xxx