Prevalence, morphology and associated risk factors for cystic ovaries in companion guinea pigs ( Cavia porcellus )
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Ovarian cysts are the most common reproductive pathology in guinea pigs, yet their prevalence and associated risk factors in clinically healthy individuals remain poorly understood. This study investigated the prevalence, size and morphology of ultrasonographically detectable ovarian cysts in guinea pigs and their associated risk factors. METHODS: A total of 221 female guinea pigs from private households and breeding collections underwent ultrasound examination to identify ovarian cysts and determine their size and morphology. Each animal's age, breed, parity and body condition were also recorded. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of ovarian cysts was 41.6%, increasing from 25.4% in animals less than 1 year old to 68.2% in those over 3 years old. Cyst size increased significantly with age (0.33 mm/month). Each increase in parity was associated with a 2.15 mm decrease in cyst size. Guinea pigs from breeders had a significantly lower prevalence of polycystic ovaries compared to privately owned individuals. Breed and body condition did not significantly affect cyst prevalence. LIMITATIONS: Histopathological cyst type and concurrent uterine disease were not examined. CONCLUSION: Age was the primary risk factor for ovarian cyst development in this population of guinea pigs, while an increase in parity decreased cyst size. Further research is needed to explore additional risk factors and establish clinically relevant cyst size thresholds.
Source: Veterinary Record
DOI: 10.1002/vetr.70214
Institutions: University of Copenhagen, Technical University of Denmark
Language: English
Subfield: Small Animals
Field: Veterinary
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7117692990