If you share your home with female guinea pigs, you may occasionally notice subtle behavior changes and wonder what is happening. One common question among guinea pig guardians is whether female guinea pigs go into heat.

It usually starts with a hunch. You notice your sweet piggy is looking a little rounder than usual. She’s hungrier, thirstier, and maybe not quite as bouncy as before. You gently stroke her side and think—was that a tiny kick? Suddenly, the possibility sinks in: your guinea pig might be pregnant.