Sexing: Both Males and Females have basically 'Y' shaped 'bits', however you can see a 'round dot' in the top of the 'Y' in the male (kind of like the round dot of an i *see note) which will distend if gentle pressure is applied either side. In older males there is also 'swelling' to be seen either side of the 'Y'. Bring someone with you who knows what they are looking for. If you compare the piggies with each other it will be clear which is a male and which is a female.

Note: Sometimes with males you cannot actually see the 'dot' as it can disappear within the folds of skin, so you may be fooled into thinking it is a female, make sure you apply the gentle pressure and get the penis to pop out so you know for sure

Here are some pics to help you:

The first is of a BOAR (male) - you can clearly see his 'manhood'

This next pic is of a SOW (female), so when you look at them both together you can clearly see the difference - note that both sexes have nipples.

Here are some great links with more pics:

• Check out this link to Helen's site - it has some good photos.
• Click here to some pics of a Baby Sow and a Baby Boar.
• This last site has a couple of great drawings clearly showing the male and female (scroll down to see them).
• Click here to Visit Kirsty's site to see the sexing of piggies at 3 days old.

* Please let me know if you find any more good links or have any useful photos I can add here ! *

Bear in mind that piggies are herd animals and like the company of their own kind, no matter how much love you can give them - but make sure you know what sexes you are mixing together so you do not end up with unwanted babies !

Many thanks to Pauline for her help in compiling this page :o)

Next >>

Why a Guinea Pig ?

What Do I Do ?

Preparation Checklist

New Arrival

Joining your Existing Herd

Cavy Names

Breeds & Varieties

Cavy Books

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Page Last Updated: 15/07/01