- Weight gain: Guinea pigs typically gain between 100-200 grams during pregnancy, but this can vary depending on the size of the litter and the individual guinea pig.
- Increased appetite: Pregnant guinea pigs will typically eat more food than usual.
- Nesting behaviour: Guinea pigs will start to build a nest out of hay and other materials in the days leading up to giving birth.
- Relaxin: The hormone relaxin is produced during pregnancy and can cause the guinea pig's ligaments and joints to become looser, making her appear "floppy" or less mobile.
- Enlarged abdomen: The guinea pig's abdomen will become noticeably enlarged as the pregnancy progresses.
It's important to note that not all of these signs are definitive indicators of pregnancy, and some guinea pigs may experience only some of these symptoms. If you are unsure whether or not your guinea pig is pregnant, it's best to take her to a vet for a check-up.
Signs that your guinea pig is just fat:
- Weight gain: Guinea pigs who are overweight or obese will also gain weight, but this weight gain will be more evenly distributed throughout the body, rather than being concentrated in the abdomen.
- No other pregnancy symptoms: If your guinea pig is not exhibiting any of the other signs of pregnancy, it's likely that she is simply overweight.
If you are concerned about your guinea pig's weight, it's best to take her to a vet for a check-up. The vet can help you determine if your guinea pig is overweight and recommend a diet and exercise plan to help her lose weight.