Plus-Hex CLINICAL
Conclusions
Poor husbandry is considered a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in guinea pigs [ 31 ] . Therefore , improved awareness of guinea pig welfare and guidance on good practice in keeping this species is drastically needed , in line with the increasing popularity of guinea pigs being kept as pets .
VNs are in a prime position to assess and recommend simple changes to husbandry , with a particular focus on the impact of nutrition . By offering good-quality advice within a clinical setting , VNs can encourage owner compliance , and thereby improve their caregiving , for the benefit of the health and welfare of the UK ' s guinea pig population . In addition to offering traditional in-clinic consultations , VNs could also use social media communication as a tool to educate owners and raise awareness of the welfare needs of guinea pigs [ 32 ] .
Assessment of learning
1 . Which of these hays should be avoided as a main source in non-nursing adult guinea pigs ?
a ) Meadow b ) Timothy c ) Alfalfa
2 . Which vitamin is required in guinea pigs ' diets , as they cannot synthesise it themselves ?
a ) Vitamin A b ) Vitamin C c ) Vitamin K
3 . What is an appropriate environmental temperature for guinea pigs ?
a ) 10 – 15 ° C
EXCLUSIVE
DIGITAL CONTENT
AVAILABLE ONLY IN THE DIGITAL EDITION
VOLUME-U Listen to the vocalisations of excited guinea pigs
Play PLAY AUDIO
VOLUME-U Listen to the vocalisations of guinea pigs in a play run
Play PLAY AUDIO Video Watch and listen to guinea pigs Winston and Olive exploring
Play PLAY VIDEO b ) 17 – 20 ° C c ) 23 – 27 ° C
4 . Decreased water intake is associated with which of these common diseases of guinea pigs ?
a ) Scurvy b ) Salmonellosis c ) Urolithiasis
5 . Which of these groupings would generally be considered most suitable for high welfare standards , provided ample space is available ?
a ) A herd of five female guinea pigs b ) A male guinea pig with a male rabbit c ) Two female guinea pigs
Video Watch and listen to a hairless guinea pig sow and her young
Play PLAY VIDEO Video Watch and listen to excited guinea pigs that are anticipating being fed
Play PLAY VIDEO
Digital content supplied by Nikki Pope , Chloe Pope and Kerry Stevens
1 . c ) Alfalfa 2 . b ) Vitamin C 3 . b ) 17 – 20 ° C 4 . c ) Urolithiasis 5 . a ) A herd of five female guinea pigs
Answers
Volume 39 ( 5 ) • October 2024
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