Why we spay and neuter Guinea Pigs
(Aka: Why are our adoption fees high?)
Most people want to know why its advantageous to spay/neuter a guinea pig when they are basically okay if left alone.
Spay/neuter is surgery, right? And that is dangerous, right?
While all surgeries carry some risks, having a skilled veterinarian who is experienced with guinea pig anaesthesia and surgical techniques can make spaying and neutering safe and beneficial. At Auckland Cavy Care, we work closely with trusted veterinarians who have performed these procedures on our guinea pigs for many years.
Here are some of the main reasons we spay and neuter our guinea pigs before adoption:
Preventing Overpopulation: Spaying and neutering ensures our guinea pigs cannot reproduce, helping to reduce the number of unwanted pets.
Health Benefits for Females: Female guinea pigs are at higher risk for uterine cancer, ovarian cysts, mammary tumors, and other reproductive organ issues as they age. Spaying helps eliminate these risks and can also reduce the likelihood of obesity.
Health Benefits for Males: Male guinea pigs can develop rectal muscle atrophy as they age, leading to impaction and the need for daily cleaning. They can also develop smegma, which can be a health concern. Neutering almost always prevents these problems. It also eliminates the risk of prostate cancer and greatly reduces the risk of mammary tumors.
Peace of Mind: When you adopt from us, you know your guinea pig has already been spayed or neutered and checked by a veterinarian.
If you were to arrange these surgeries yourself, costs typically start at $130 for a neuter and $150 for a spay. By adopting from Auckland Cavy Care, you are not only giving a guinea pig a loving home but also ensuring they are healthy and cannot contribute to overpopulation.
Impaction
A common boar problem that can be fixed or lessened from de-sexing is Impaction in which you need to physically clean out the guinea pig's anal sac.
The picture above shows a male guinea pig suffering from impaction. For information on how to prevent, and treat impaction please visit:
Ovarian cancer
A common medical issue that female guinea pigs get but spaying takes away that chance.
Hair loss, such as in the picture above, is a common symptom of an ovarian tumor. For more information please visit:


