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? phantom pregnancy?

21 14:26:08

Question
I have had a guinea pig now for almost two years , I originally had two but unfortunately one  passed away after meeting one of my nieghbours cats even though it was  locked in it hutch!! Th problem i have is with the remaining girl, over the last couple of months I have noticed that she has become very fat and aggressive, and even though it is completely impossible appaers to be  showing signs of pregnancy, including the big belly, larger nipples and a small creamy looking blob in her bottom. I hve bought her a rabbit for company ( who is also a girl) and although they get along well I am still concerned about my guinea pig and if it is possible there could be something else wrong, I am reluctant to take her to the vet at the moment because she doesnt actually seem to be physically unwell? any ideas as to what I should do, is all of this harmless or should i get her seen by the vet?

Answer
Hello Shirley,

She should see a vet. If she hasn't been around any males, she may have a problem with her reproductive system. Cysts and tumors on her ovaries can cause symptoms similar to a pregnancy, so could an infection. Spaying will take care of tumors or cysts and an antibiotic will treat an infection. Either situation can be treated fairly easily but if left untreated could be deadly so it's best to see a vet. The sooner the better. Good luck with her and I'm so sorry you lost one of your babies to a cat.

-kkat
www.geocities.com/abyssinianguineapigs