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Guinea pig breeding and genetics

21 14:33:32

Question
Thank you, so how many times a year would you breed a sow and what age up too, mine is on the 3rd litter at 2 and a half years, is this ok?
thank you
amy
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Followup To

Question -
HI, how many times can you breed a female guinea pig and what age up to?
Aslo what do i need to no about gentics?
thank you for your help
amy

Answer -
Hi Amy,

I don't like to breed my guinea pigs more than two or three times.  I find they become more prone to pregnancy toxemia when they are bred too many times.  There is no cure for toxemia and it is usually fatal.

What do you want to know about genetics?  There is a lot to know, so if you could be more specific it would help me out a lot.  For instance are you interested in breed or color genetics?  What color(s) or breeds?  I can help with other genetics questions also, but really need to know what you are looking for.

Thanks,

Annie

Answer
Hi Amy,

She should be fine, but I would make it her last breeding.  It's about what I do - more or less anyway.

If you've gotten through two pregnancies with her, just do the same thing you've been doing.

If she shows any sign of decreased water or food intake, give her as much wet greens as she will eat.  Foods I use are red leaf lettuce, melons, strawberries, cucumbers, and parsley.  I have found this decreases the incidence of pregnancy toxemia for me.  This is purely personal experience, not scientific knowledge.  It certainly has never hurt!

If there is anything else you need please let me know.

Good luck,

Annie