Etiology:  Dystocia most commonly occurs due to the fusion of the pelvic symphysis resulting in an inability of the pelvic inlet to expand..  Dystocia may also be caused by abnormally big or malformed fetuses, unusually large litters, or abnormal fetal presentations [1].

Incidence:  The incidence of dystocia is moderate, and most often occurs in primiparous dams older than six months of age.

Clinical Signs:  Guinea pigs normally deliver pups quickly (every 3-7 minutes) with completion of delivery generally within 30 minutes.  Signs of dystocia include straining, unproductive contractions, depression and sometimes bloody or greenish-brown discharge from the vulva.

Diagnosis:  History and clinical signs can be used to make the diagnosis of dystocia.

1.            Quesenberry, K.E., Carpenter, James W., Ferrets, Rabbits, And Rodents Clinical Medicine And Surgery2003, 11830 Westline Industrial Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63146: Saunders.