Which rodent species is particularly at risk for developing pregnancy toxemia?

Pregnancy toxemia, also known as ketosis, is a metabolic disorder that can occur in pregnant animals, particularly when they are under excessive nutritional stress or are unable to meet the energy demands of pregnancy. In rodents, guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable to this condition due to their unique reproductive physiology and dietary needs.

Guinea pigs have relatively high energy requirements during pregnancy and lactation. If their diet is not appropriately balanced or if they do not have sufficient caloric intake to meet the increased demands, they can develop ketosis. Factors such as obesity, inadequate nutrition, and stress during pregnancy can exacerbate the risk of developing pregnancy toxemia in guinea pigs.

Conversely, while hamsters, mice, and rats can experience various health issues during pregnancy, they are generally not as predisposed to pregnancy toxemia as guinea pigs. These species can often manage the metabolic demands of pregnancy more effectively under normal dietary conditions, making them less likely to experience this specific complication.