I. Dystocia
II. Mastitis
III. Pregnancy Toxemia
IV. Vaginitis and Scrotal Plugs
Dystocia most commonly occurs in primiparous dams older than six months of age due to the fusion of the pelvic symphysis and lack of pelvic inlet expansion needed for delivery of fetuses. Dystocia may also be caused by abnormally big or malformed fetuses, unusually large litters, or abnormal fetal presentations. Guinea pigs normally deliver pups quickly (every 3-7 minutes) with completion generally within 30 minutes. Labor without pup delivery indicates dystocia and Cesarian delivery is warranted. If the pup delivery interval is prolonged and intrauterine pup orientation is normal, uterine inertia may be the diagnosis. Uterine contractions can be reinitiated with the administration of 1 unit of oxytocin SQ.
Mastitis is a fairly common problem in lactating Guinea pigs. The affected gland becomes diffusely or focally enlarged, hyperemic and warm, and later becomes cyanotic and cool. Depression ensues and the animal may die of septicemic complications. Mastitis may be caused by a variety of organisms, including Pasteurella sp., Klebsiella sp., coliforms, streptococci, and staphylococci. Treatment consists of hot packs, systemic antibiotics, surgical resection of the affected gland(s) and weaning the precocious young at birth.
A. Etiology: Pregnancy toxemia is a syndrome that occurs in late gestation or in the immediate postpartum period. Two causes have been identified: 1) pre-eclampsia or the circulatory form with uteroplacental ischemia, and 2) fasting ketosis or the nutritional form with hypoglycemia and hyperlipidemia. Toxemia typically occurs in multiparous females. Predisposing factors include obesity, large fetal loads, sudden dietary changes, lack of exercise, and environmental stress. Obese, aged males may develop a similar toxemia.
B. Clinical Signs: The syndrome usually starts during the last two weeks of gestation or the first week post-partum. When not immediately fatal, clinical signs may include depression, lassitude, anorexia, dyspnea, convulsions, and stillbirths. The urine becomes clear, has a pH of 5 to 6, and contains high levels of ketone and protein. Hematologic abnormalities consist of hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, elevated BUN, and hypoglycemia.
C. Pathology and Diagnosis: On necropsy, the stomach is empty,
the liver and kidneys are quite fatty, the uterus may contain near-term
fetae along with varying amounts of hemorrhage, and ample fat stores are
visible throughout the abdomen. Diagnosis is based upon history,
clinical signs, urinalysis, and necropsy. 
D. Treatment and Control: The condition offers a poor prognosis. Therapy with glucose in fluids (1 ml 50% glucose in 3 to 5 ml Lactated Ringers IV or IP) plus a corticosteroid (cortisone at 0.25 - 1.25 mg/day delivered subQ, IM or PO) may be attempted. The condition is best prevented by supplying an adequate amount of digestible energy during late gestation and lactation, and maintaining animals in a non-obese condition. A commercial producer will not keep any female offspring as replacement breeders if they were produced by a sow that developed pregnancy ketosis.
IV. Vaginitis and Scrotal Plugs
Wood chips may adhere to the vulva and vestibule, or to the prepuce
causing a foreign body reaction. Male Guinea pigs may accumulate
a plug of sebaceous material and bedding in the skin fold overlying the
interscrotal septum (see photo). Treat both conditions by washing
the affected area with mild soap and water, carefully pulling the debris
out. Problem animals should be placed on a different surface, such
as wire or shredded newspaper. 
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