What are Tumors & Cancers in Guinea Pigs
A tumor is an abnormal mass of cells that form new tissue or growth. A tumor can be benign or malignant or both.A benign tumor grows slowly and doesn’t invade surrounding tissues or spread to other areas of the body. Malignant tumors can spread to distant areas or invade nearby lymph nodes.
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Although tumors in guinea-pigs are rare, they can be seen in as young as four months old pigs. Tumors are more common after the age of three. Blue Colored Birds It is estimated that 30% of older guinea-pigs will develop cancer.Guinea pigs can develop tumors at most sites, including their skin, lungs, mammary glands and ovaries. Rarely are liver, bladder, bone and muscle tumors.
Causes of Tumors and Carcinoma in Guinea Pigs
As with all animals, the greater chance of developing tumors in guinea pigs the longer they live. Although it is likely that tumors are caused by genetics and environmental factors, we don’t know why.
Bronchogenic papillary tumor, also known as benign lung cancer, is the most common type of tumor in guinea pigs. These tumors account for between 30 and 25% of all guinea-pig tumors after age 3. Although they are benign, they can grow slowly and cause no symptoms. However, it can also take up lung space so much that it mimics signs like pneumonia. They are usually not responsive to treatment.
A benign skin tumor is the
second most common type. These tumors account for about 15% of all guinea-pig tumors. A trichofolliculoma is the most common. This is mostly found in males and is considered benign. They can be removed surgically.
Mammary gland cancers are also quite common and may be more prevalent in men. They are usually benign fibroadenomas. However, some researchers believe that between 30-75% are malignant fibroadenocarcinomas. They can spread to the lungs by invading local tissues.Female guinea pigs who haven’t been spayed are more likely to develop benign uterine or ovarian cancers. Many uterine tumors can be leiomyomas and ovarian cancers are often teratomas.
How veterinarians diagnose cancers and tumors in Guinea Pigs
A thorough vet exam is the first step in diagnosing the problem. Your veterinarian may perform a fine needle aspiration if there are any skin nodules. The needle is very thin and used to take a sample of the tumor cells. To determine if the cells look abnormal, a microscope is used to examine them.
A biopsy may be recommended by your vet to check for skin cancers. This could involve taking a small sample of tissue or completely removing it under anesthesia. Your veterinarian may order tests to check the health of your guinea pig’s organs, such as bloodwork, ultrasound, CT scans, and bloodwork if your pet has trouble breathing, distended stomach, difficulty eating, or other symptoms. 
Your veterinarian will perform an ultrasound or x-ray to check for potential spread of the tumor if they have found it. To determine if the tumor has spread, your veterinarian may need to examine the lymph nodes or remove them.
Treatment of Tumors in Guinea Pigs
The most common treatment depends on the type and extent of the tumor. If the tumor is malignant, chemotherapy and radiation may be suggested. Palliative care may be the main focus depending on the stage and prognosis of the tumor. To maintain a high quality of life, this means that your guinea pig should be kept comfortable.
Treatment and Recovery of Tumors and Cancers in Guinea Pigs
Some tumors can be completely removed and treated with surgery. Your guinea pig will be able to return to normal activities once she has been monitored and restrained for two weeks. Do Birds Have Ears
A tumor that has not been completely removed can still grow back even with supportive treatment. This can lead to a lengthy recovery with frequent visits to the veterinarian and weekly or monthly visits. To combat any eating problems, supplement with Oxbow Critical Care high-fiber to help.
Your veterinarian may recommend lifestyle and diet changes depending on the severity of your disease. Your veterinarian may recommend lifestyle changes or diet modifications depending on the severity of the disease.