Anatomical Particularities of Male Reproductive System of Guinea Pigs (Cavia porcellus)

Abstract

Currently the pet area shares a great diversity by promoting many exotic species and increasingly expanding existing ones, particularly those of small size. To perpetuate these species a decisive role it has integrity and urogenital health. For this reason and in order to obtain more docile animals, influencing their sexual behavior, veterinarian interventions in order to sterilize, or other curative or preventive maneuvers are required. Knowing in detail the morphology of genitourinary apparatus is crucial for a correct surgical approach. The aim of this study is to achieve a detailed anatomical description of the components of male reproductive system in guinea pigs. Regional stratigraphic dissection was applied on 10 subjects. Macroscopically the components of male genitalia were examined.Wide opening of inguinal ring was present in all subjects. Ovoid testicle shows a well developed epididymus and a considerable amount of surrounding fat tissue. The glans penis is well represented, being present a small os penis within the dorsal surface of the entire length of glans. The seminal vesicles are the most developed sexual accessory glands, having a coiled pattern, blind ended, and stretching until the abdominal cavity. Prostate and coagulating glands are located at the base of seminal vesicles in close relationship. The prostate is composed of two lobes, dorsal and ventral lobe united by a transversal isthmus. Lobulated coagulating glands show pyramidal pattern being located caudal to the bladder. Bulbouretral glands were small, ovoid and lobulated.Both gonads and accessory sexual glands were well-developed in guinea pigs.