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Ovarian Cysts in Guinea Pigs: Symptoms + Treatment Options

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop near a female guinea pig’s ovaries during their reproductive cycle. These cysts are more commonly found in older guinea pigs and can vary in size, often growing larger as the guinea pig ages.

There are different types of ovarian cysts in guinea pigs:

Serous Cysts (Cystic Rete Ovarii): These are the most common ovarian cysts in guinea pigs. They don’t produce hormones and typically don’t cause problems unless they grow very large and press on nearby organs.

Follicular Cysts: These cysts develop from ovarian follicles that fail to ovulate. Signs include non-itchy hair loss on the side, reduced appetite, an enlarged abdomen, behaviour changes, and possibly less frequent bowel movements.

Parovarian Cysts: The rarest type, originating from a remnant of the ovary called the parovarium during development.

Neoplastic Cysts: Ovarian cancer with cystic characteristics that can contain both fluid and solid tissue.

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What causes ovarian cysts in guinea pigs?

While the exact causes of ovarian cysts in guinea pigs are not fully understood, several things may contribute to their development. These factors can vary among individual guinea pigs. Here are some of the potential triggers:

Hormonal Imbalances: Guinea pig ovarian cysts are closely linked to hormonal fluctuations. Disruptions in the normal reproductive hormone cycle can play a vital role. For instance, follicular cysts can arise when eggs fail to release due to hormonal imbalances.

Genetics: Just as genetics can influence various aspects of an individual’s health, some guinea pigs may have a genetic predisposition to develop ovarian cysts, making them more susceptible.

Age: Although not a direct cause, ovarian cysts tend to be more prevalent in guinea pigs between the ages of 2 and 4 years, hinting at potential age-related factors as contributors.

Reproductive Activity: Guinea pigs that have never experienced pregnancy or have a history of frequent estrus (heat) cycles may be at a heightened risk. These cysts are closely associated with the reproductive cycle.

Black and tan female short-haired guinea pig

Symptoms of ovarian cysts

As ovarian cysts are often linked with raised hormone levels, such as oestrogen, these hormonal imbalances can lead to persistent heat, irregular reproductive cycles, hair loss, and infertility. Also, other disorders of the womb, like leiomyomas (fibroids) and uterine cancer, can develop alongside these cysts. 

Here are some of the symptoms you may notice if your guinea pig has ovarian cysts:

  • Hair loss over the flanks and abdomen, without any itching or abnormalities to the skin.
  • Hair loss in other body regions.
  • Crusty nipples.
  • A pear-shaped body, seen from above, may show a larger abdomen
  • Mounting behaviour and increased aggression.

Diagnosis and treatment

It is sometimes possible to feel ovarian cysts through the abdominal wall. But they are typically diagnosed with a scan. If cysts are diagnosed, there are a few treatment options: 

Spaying

Ovariohysterectomy: Commonly known as spaying, ovariohysterectomy involves the complete removal of both the ovaries and the uterus. This is the recommended treatment, especially for serous cysts, because it will cure the problem, and serous cysts do not typically respond to medical or hormone treatments.

Ovariectomy: On the other hand, ovariectomy focuses on removing only the ovaries from the guinea pig’s reproductive system. This approach is often recommended as a treatment for ovarian cysts, particularly when a full ovariohysterectomy is not feasible. Ovariectomy effectively addresses the cyst issue without removing the entire uterus.

It’s important to note that performing these surgeries in guinea pigs can be challenging due to their unique reproductive tract anatomy, with the ovaries positioned high up near the kidneys. Additionally, the risks associated with anaesthesia increase depending on the initial health of the guinea pig. When surgery is not a suitable option, alternative treatments like hormone therapy or cyst drainage may be considered, although their effectiveness can vary.

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Fluid drainage

If surgery is not a viable option for your guinea pig, an alternative treatment is to drain the fluid from the cysts to provide temporary relief from discomfort. However, it’s important to note that this is not a permanent solution, as cysts often return, sometimes within days. So, while draining can alleviate symptoms temporarily, it usually requires repeat procedures. 

Hormone treatments

For follicular cysts, hormone-based treatments like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injections have been used in the past. However, these are controlled substances and can be difficult to obtain for veterinary use. Also, hormone implants (Deslorelin) and injections (Lupron) have not shown consistent effectiveness in treating ovarian cysts in guinea pigs.

elderly female guinea pig

Prognosis

The outcome for your guinea pig depends on factors like the type of cyst, the chosen treatment, and your guinea pig’s overall health. Surgery can be a cure, but it carries risks. Draining cysts provides short-term relief. Hormone therapy isn’t consistently effective, as it may only work for certain cyst types. To determine the kind of cyst, it will normally need to be surgically removed and sent to a laboratory for further testing.

Prevention

Spaying a guinea pig when young is the only known method to prevent ovarian cysts. However, it’s essential to exercise caution as it’s a complex procedure with associated risks, particularly since many veterinarians may not have extensive experience with guinea pig surgeries.  Most owners choose not to spay their female guinea pigs, and it’s crucial to exercise caution and thoroughly weigh the pros and cons before deciding on the best course of action for your pet.

FAQs

Can guinea pigs live with ovarian cysts?

Guinea pigs can live with ovarian cysts, but the quality of life and overall health of the guinea pig can be affected depending on the type and size of the cysts. Some cysts may not cause significant problems, while others can lead to discomfort, pain, and various health issues. 

If left untreated, ovarian cysts will often increase in size over time, potentially exerting pressure on surrounding organs, causing pain, and raising concerns like gut stasis. Regular monitoring and consultation with a vet are crucial for addressing ovarian cysts. The vet may recommend interventions like spaying based on the cysts’ severity.

If left untreated, ovarian cysts can grow larger over time, potentially causing pain and putting pressure on nearby organs, which can lead to issues like gut stasis. It’s important to have regular checkups with a vet if your guinea pig has ovarian cysts, as they may suggest interventions like spaying based on the cysts’ severity.

Can ovarian cysts burst?

Ovarian cysts can burst, which can be extremely painful and life-threatening. Rupture may lead to internal adhesions, further complicating health matters. In some instances, ovarian cysts have been associated with uterine issues in guinea pigs.

Information for this article has been gathered from several trusted sources, including The Veterinary Nurse and The Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital.

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