Cystitis in guinea pigs ( Cavia porcellus ): Clinical findings and treatment outcomes
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: This retrospective study examined the incidence, diagnostic methods, bacterial isolates, treatments and outcomes associated with cystitis in guinea pigs presented at a single clinic between 2009 and 2022. METHODS: The clinic's medical records database was reviewed using easyvet software to identify cases eligible for inclusion in the study. Inclusion criteria were leukocyturia and/or bacteriuria, with at least one radiographic and one ultrasonographic examination. Culture-confirmed cases with imaging-based diagnoses were also included. RESULTS: Forty-six guinea pigs met the inclusion criteria. Clinical signs included haematuria (n = 12), incontinence (n = 10), stranguria (n = 5), abdominal discomfort (n = 6), inappetence (n = 8), weight loss (n = 4) and apathy (n = 3). Ultrasonography revealed ascites (28%), peritonitis (33%) and urinary bladder sludge (63%). Bacterial isolates were obtained in 21 cases, with Corynebacterium renale (50%) and Staphylococcus spp. (21%) being most frequently isolated. Resistance to fluoroquinolones was observed, while the highest susceptibility was observed with chloramphenicol. Recurrence/reinfection occurred in 37% of cases, and the median survival time was 249 days. Euthanasia owing to severe cystitis was required in 24% of cases. LIMITATIONS: The absence of urine culture in 25 cases reduced diagnostic certainty. The retrospective nature limited full assessment of antimicrobial resistance patterns. CONCLUSION: Cystitis involving C. renale was linked to chronic progression and high recurrence rates.
Source: Veterinary Record
DOI: 10.1002/vetr.70391
Authors: Anika Mische, Kerstin Müller
Institution: Freie Universität Berlin
Language: English
Subfield: Small Animals
Field: Veterinary
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,980
OpenAlex ID: W7128688265