GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANIMAL WELFARE QUALITY OF GUINEA PIGS (Cavia porcellus) RAISED AT THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR CONTROL OF VACCINES AND BIOLOGICALS

Abstract

Guinea pigs are commonly utilized as laboratory animals, but research regarding their welfare status in Vietnam remains limited. This study aimed to identify key welfare issues and priority areas for improvement to enhance the growth and welfare quality of guinea pigs. Experiments were conducted on breeding, parent, and nursing guinea pigs. Guinea pigs were weighed to calculate their average daily gain. Animal welfare was assessed through body condition scores, coat condition, eye inflammation, joint swelling, wounds on body, foot inflammation, and diarrhea by direct observation of each individual and scoring on a scale. Nursing guinea pigs showed a good growth performance, with males growing faster than females. Daily weight gain from birth to weaning was higher in males (6.79 g/day) than in females (6.32 g/day). All welfare quality indicators were good in both the nursing and breeding guinea pigs. During the mating period, some guinea pigs were underweight (7/30, or 23.33%, score 2), experienced hair loss (10/30, or 33.33%), and had foot inflammation (5/30, or 16.67%). The guinea pigs achieved a good weight gain during the nursing period and good welfare quality in most indicators