Piggy Weights Ok?

[Jessmacg]

As everyone probably knows by now I have 4 piggies. I weigh them regularly and until recently all of them have been putting on weight of an average of 30g per week. However, after a few weeks their growth seems to have slowed down/ nearly stopped. I understand the two older ones (8 months) wont be putting on as much weight now as they are stating to slow down but I wouldn't expect the babies (4.5 months) to also stop putting on weight as fast. Betty seems to be ok she's nearly 900g now and seems to continue to be putting on weight nicely. Wilma hasn't put anything on for three weeks, she may just be a small pig but she's stayed at 800g now.

Whilst with the two little ones Pebbles has put on about 20g and Pearl who is the greediest piggy has lost 10g which I know an just be down to an empty belly.

None of them have lost so much weight to make me think that they are sick. But I wonder what may be causing this. They still get as much hay and veg as before. I have recently changed their food from muesli over to pellets which they are eating. Maybe only one or two of the pigs are eating the pellets? or maybe it's the weather, do they eat less in the heat?

As I said I'm not too worried as long as they aren't losing too much weight. I'm more looking for answers and to see if anyone else has anything similar going on.

 

[Wiebke]

The weights are very good and the slowing down of the weight gain is perfectly normal; it happens at some point between 4-6 months. The stop happens sooner if a young piggy hits about 800g early. Smaller youngsters or those on a less rich diet will grow on for longer until they also come close to their ideal genetically determined body weight. After that it is a bit stop and go until they reach adulthood and their adult size.

Hot weather and a change in food can also impact on the appetite. You only need to worry if the weight loss is over 50g/2 oz of weight.

 

[Jessmacg]

Lovely, thank you for your explanation that has helped a lot

 

[Stewybus]

Here's a weight chart I put on The Guinea Pig Community Facebook page a couple of days ago. It is useful for recording their weights.

 

[Amyscoobybarnie]

I think my piggies were under weight when I got them I have had them for 2 weeks and their weight gain is noticeable. It's weigh in day tomorrow. But last week them were 9 and 12 ounces. Is it normal for them to put weight on so fast?