A Cytological Determination of the Estrus Cycle in Guinea pigs

Abstract

A cytologic study was carried out to determine the Estrus cycle in 5 female guinea pigs of reproductive age, for a period of 28days in the Animal House of the College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu. Vaginal smears were collected from the animals and made on clean grease-free slides, fixed in 95% Ethanol and stained by Papanicolauo technique. The slides were microscopically examined and the 140 specimens graded accordingly. The morphological, cytological and clinical manifestations observed are presented in the results. The study suggests that the ovulation period in female guinea pigs lasts between 19-21days, usually accompanied with an increase in body temperature within the range of 36.51-37.01°C.