Study of the Incidence of Pregnancy Toxemia in a Colony of Pirbright Guinea Pigs (Cavia porcellus)

Document Type : Original Articles

Authors

1 Department of Research, Breeding and Production of Laboratory Animals, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran.

2 Department of Pathology, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran

10.32598/ARI.81.3.4007

Abstract

Introduction: Guinea pigs are susceptible to pregnancy toxemia. This disorder is a metabolic disease. 
Materials & Methods: A colony of laboratory guinea pigs was monitored for the occurrence of pregnancy toxemia at a breeding center. Blood and urine samples were collected from suspected cases for measurement of pH, glucose, triglycerides, total protein, ALP, creatinine and ketone bodies. Following necropsy, samples from internal organs were collected for bacterial culture, and tissues were prepared for histopathological examination. The diet used was also sent to the laboratory for chemical and toxicological analysis.
Results: Only five pregnant female guinea pigs showed clinical signs suspicious of pregnancy toxemia. At necropsy, the stomach and cecum were empty, and the liver was large and pale. On cross-section, the kidneys appeared pale. In the histological section of the liver, balloon cells and an abundance of fat vacuoles were observed, and in the kidney, foci of tubular coagulation necrosis were observed. The results of the cultures were negative for opportunistic and pathogenic bacterial agents. Blood total protein, pH and glucose decreased, and creatinine​​, ALP, and ketone bodies increased. In urine, the pH changed from completely alkaline to acidic, and ketone bodies increased sharply. Chemical and microbiological analysis of the diet did not detect any significant changes in nutrients. In addition, it was negative for salmonella and shigella, and the aflatoxin content was within the permissible range.
Conclusion: In conclusion, it is recommended to replace old female guinea pigs with young females in the colony to prevent the occurrence of this syndrome. 

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Archives of Razi Institute
Volume 81, Issue 3
May and June 2026
Pages 757-766

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