Lactation

Needless to say, lactating does and sows should have access to fresh water at all times.

Does and sows should be checked to make sure they are producing milk when the young are around 12 hours old. Nipples should be checked twice a day for any signs of soreness which might indicate an inadequate milk supply or the first signs of mastitis.  The technical term for lack of milk is 'agalactica' which many help in an Internet search for information.

The milk supply can be increased by feeding goats rue, milk thistle, fresh fennel or, to a lesser extent, raspberry, borage or dried nettles. Grass and fresh green leafy vegetables also help. Alternatively, feed Galen's Garden Herbal Tincture Blend No.IV.   Herbs which are good for lactation have 'galactogogue' listed in the actions section.

With large litters it is important to ensure the sow or doe has sufficient calcium in her diet. Calcium supplements such as Osteocare Liquid can be given to help ensure adequate calcium levels. (0.5ml once daily)

Sore Nipples

Bath with warm salt water or water with 10% garlic juice. Dry gently and apply a little aloe vera gel, wheatgerm oil, rosehip oil or calendula cream to promote healing. If infection is suspected spray with colloidal silver and then apply aloe vera gel after bathing. The aloe vera helps the silver penetrate more deeply. (See also Homoeopathy)

The cage or hutch must be kept very clean to prevent mastitis in guinea pigs especially as they are so 'low slung'.

The milk supply can be reduced by feeding a single mint or sage leaf or giving a few mls of sage or mint tea. Cut out grass, greens and wild herbage from the diet until the milk supply is reduced.