Life-long Hunched Posture - Spine Problem?

[kirstypiggies]

My Cowgirl cavy sow has had a hunched posture since we got her. It is hard to explain or see, let alone take a pic - so I know this will limit how anyone might help! But are there any common-ish issues this might be? I'm thinking the spine issue, so not correctable? She's been for 4 checkups and the vet never mentioned anything.

She never seemed (or seems) to be in pain, and we thought her posture was cute and down to personality - until when picking her up recently she's started squealing far more readily. It also coincides with the substantial weight gain she's had over the last few months (she's now 6 months old). But AFAIK she's only slightly overweight if at all. Again, vet said she's a good weight. Nothing else seems wrong with her. She's always been as energetic as my other piggies, good appetite etc etc.

I know guinea pigs don't like being picked up anyway - but it is obviously unavoidable and also might hint at a deeper problem. Also I know their rear particularly needs good support, and have watched videos so I am pretty sure my technique is reasonable for most piggies. I just want to do what's best for Cowgirl.

I will bring it up at her next checkup (or sooner, depending), but want to go in more prepared.

 

[DM030819]

Has she been xrayed to see if there is anything wrong with her spine? Her squealing could mean that it's hurting so an xray may show something.

 

[Wiebke]

My Cowgirl cavy sow has had a hunched posture since we got her. It is hard to explain or see, let alone take a pic - so I know this will limit how anyone might help! But are there any common-ish issues this might be? I'm thinking the spine issue, so not correctable? She's been for 4 checkups and the vet never mentioned anything.

She never seemed (or seems) to be in pain, and we thought her posture was cute and down to personality - until when picking her up recently she's started squealing far more readily. It also coincides with the substantial weight gain she's had over the last few months (she's now 6 months old). But AFAIK she's only slightly overweight if at all. Again, vet said she's a good weight. Nothing else seems wrong with her. She's always been as energetic as my other piggies, good appetite etc etc.

I know guinea pigs don't like being picked up anyway - but it is obviously unavoidable and also might hint at a deeper problem. Also I know their rear particularly needs good support, and have watched videos so I am pretty sure my technique is reasonable for most piggies. I just want to do what's best for Cowgirl.

I will bring it up at her next checkup (or sooner, depending), but want to go in more prepared.

If you are worried, I would recommend having an x-ray done. Some piggies have a bit more of an arched back.

At 6 months old, your girl is still growing, so she is in no danger of being overweight, but she is now starting to get past the phase of the initial fast growth and is starting to develop her female pear-shaped figure, which is genetically determined and has nothing to do with overweight.
How To Pick Up And Weigh Your Guinea Pig
The Importance Of Weighing - Ideal Weight / Overweight / Underweight

 

[kirstypiggies]

Thanks - How much might such an x-ray cost? Do prices vary depending on the type of x-ray?

 

[Wiebke]

Thanks - How much might such an x-ray cost? Do prices vary depending on the type of x-ray?

The price can vary between clinics, so you have to ask the clinic. You are always free to ring up and enquire.