[Gpdd] [HEALTH] Ovarian cysts/balding flanks

[DebJonSara at aol.com]

Carly
 
As you may know, I have no expert vet care here in rural France, but have  
received a visit from the rodentologists at Cavies Castle just over a year ago,  
who did health checks on all my piggies - I had more then. They found ovarian 
 cysts on several, but said it was not serious and not to worry about it 
unless  they grew, which (touch wood) none of them have done.
 
I have two girls, both just over 4 years old, who have bald flanks. The  
rodentologists said this could have been due to hormonal imbalance (they had  
already been routinely treated for parasites). Both girls are maintaining their  
weight, behaving normally and eating and drinking well. Surgery would not be an 
 option for me. But so far they are showing no sign of illness.
 
If I were you, I would of course get the vet to confirm that there is no  
serious cause of the balding - no parasites or tumours. He/she should be able to  
feel an ovarian cyst by gently palpating the tummy. But if the piggie seems 
well  enough in herself and shows no sign of pain or illness, if I were in your 
 situation I would not opt for surgery at this stage.
 
Good luck, and keep us informed
 
Debbie