will my pig die?

Question
My guines pig is pregnant and I believe her to be nearly due because we can feel babies and I am pretty sure I couldeel the ribs of one.  She was not supposed to get pregnant and we no longer even have the male.  She killed him very early on, after about two weeks.  We have no idea how old she is, (at least a year) and if she has had babies before.  We bought her at a pet store.  I am very nervous because we cannot afford a c-section, but fear that she will die if we don't schedule one for her.  Do you have any idea how much these cost and what will happen if she is not even due yet?  We really don't want her to die, and I have no intentions to breed pigs.  We are heartbroken and terrified of losing her.  Please give any advice.

Answer
Hey Sumer,

Its very unfortunate that the piggy became pregnant, and even sadder that she killed the male.

Guinea pigs become sexually mature very early on, but they must have their first litter before they're two years old (if the intention is for breeding,), or else their hip bones harden, and become too small for the baby piggies to be born, and can result in the deaths of the babies and the mother. However, if you bought her at a pet store not long ago, then it is unlikely that she is more than 2 years old. If you know she's under 2 then she should be fine.
    However, if she is more than 2 years old, it is very likely that a natural birth will be dangerous and unsuccessful.

However, it would be an idea to at least check with the vet to confirm that the birth will be OK. The vet will be able to get a better idea of the piggy's age, and will tell you whether the birth is likely to go well or not. If he thinks that the piggy is at risk, then yes, the best idea would be to get her a c-section. He may also be able to tell you how 'far gone' your piggy is. Even if she isn't due yet, the ba bies may STILL survive, depending on how far-gone your piggy is. But be prepared - if your piggy is over two, and the babies arent mature enough to survive yet, it may be a case of choosing the mother's life over the babys'.

The prices of C-sections vary with practices, so you'd have to get a quote from your local vet.

I hope i was able to help. Any more questions, don't hesitate to ask! ;)

Jo