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Do you treat all types of small exotic mammals?
Yes. We see rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, chinchillas, rats, hamsters, gerbils, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, and more. If your pet needs specialized treatment beyond our scope, we can refer you to a trusted exotic mammal specialist.
How often should my exotic mammal have a veterinary check-up?
Most pets should have an annual wellness exam, but seniors or pets with health conditions benefit from exams every 6 months. These pets can decline quickly if illness goes unnoticed.
How should I transport my pet to the clinic?
Use a secure, well-ventilated carrier lined with familiar bedding. For prey species like rabbits and guinea pigs, a covered carrier helps reduce stress. Avoid wire-bottom cages for transport.
What are the signs my exotic mammal is sick?
People often search this as: rabbit acting sick, guinea pig sick signs, ferret sick symptoms, hamster sick, rat sick
Signs of illness in exotic mammals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, hamsters, and rats may include changes in eating, droppings, activity level, grooming, breathing, or posture. Many prey species instinctively hide illness until it becomes more advanced, so even subtle changes can be important.
Why is my rabbit or guinea pig not eating?
People often search this as: rabbit not eating, guinea pig not eating, bunny stopped eating, guinea pig won’t eat
Loss of appetite in rabbits and guinea pigs is a serious concern. These species rely on constant gut movement, and reduced eating can quickly lead to gastrointestinal slowdown. If a rabbit or guinea pig stops eating for several hours or appears uncomfortable, veterinary evaluation is strongly recommended. Schedule an appointment.
Do ferrets need vaccines?
Yes. Ferrets should be vaccinated against canine distemper and rabies. We also recommend that all rabbits be vaccinated against Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2. For more information, visit our Client Education Resource Center.
Can small mammals get fleas or mites?
Yes. External parasites can cause itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. Safe treatment is available through your veterinarian.
Do I need to spay or neuter my exotic mammal?
In many cases, yes. For example, female rabbits should be spayed to prevent uterine cancer, and ferrets are often neutered to manage hormone-related health problems. If you are wondering whether spaying or neutering is recommended for your pet, feel free to give us a call!
Why is my small mammal losing weight?
Causes may include dental disease, parasites, organ disease, or inadequate diet.
Weight loss should be evaluated within 24–48 hours. Schedule an appointment.
Why are my rabbit or guinea pig’s teeth overgrown or uneven?
Malocclusion causes pain and prevents normal eating.
Dental issues require veterinary intervention and should not be trimmed at home. Schedule an appointment.
Why is my ferret coughing, wheezing, or breathing rapidly?
These may indicate heart disease, respiratory infection, influenza, or inhaled foreign material.
Any breathing difficulty in ferrets is considered urgent. Schedule an appointment.
Why does my hamster or rat have a wet tail or diarrhea?
Diarrhea in small rodents can progress rapidly.
Seek immediate veterinary care. Schedule an appointment.
Why is my small mammal scratching excessively or losing fur?
Possible causes include mites, lice, fungal disease, allergies, or hormonal issues.
Skin symptoms require timely diagnosis and treatment. Schedule an appointment.
Why is my small mammal sitting still, cold, or hunched?
This posture commonly indicates pain, GI disease, or systemic illness.
A hunched posture is a serious sign and should be addressed immediately. Schedule an appointment.
What kind of housing does my pet need?
A hunched posture is a serious sign and should be addressed immediately
Each species has unique space, substrate, and enrichment requirements. All cages should allow for natural movement and be easy to clean. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as they can irritate the respiratory system.
Does my pet need out-of-cage time?
Yes—most exotic mammals benefit from daily, supervised playtime outside their enclosure in a safe, escape-proof area.
How often should I clean my pet’s enclosure?
Spot-clean daily and replace bedding or substrate as needed. Deep-clean the enclosure weekly with pet-safe cleaners.
Do exotic mammals need enrichment?
Absolutely. Chew toys, tunnels, climbing structures, and foraging opportunities help prevent boredom and stress.
What should I feed my rabbit or guinea pig?
Rabbits: Unlimited fresh hay, measured pellets, and leafy greens daily.
Guinea pigs: Same as rabbits, but they also require vitamin C supplementation.
For more information, visit our Client Education Resource Center.
What do ferrets eat?
A high-protein, high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, typically from premium ferret food or certain high-quality kitten foods. Avoid fruits, vegetables, and grains. For more information, visit our Client Education Resource Center.
What do hedgehogs eat?
A balanced hedgehog diet with added insects, supplemented with small amounts of fruits and vegetables. For more information, visit our Client Education Resource Center.
Do small mammals need supplements?
Some do, guinea pigs need vitamin C, and certain others may benefit from calcium or vitamin supplementation. For more information, visit our Client Education Resource Center.
Why is my pet chewing the bars of its cage?
This can be boredom, frustration, or a sign that the enclosure is too small. Increasing enrichment and out-of-cage time can help.
Is it normal for my pet to hide all the time?
Many small mammals are naturally shy, but excessive hiding can indicate stress, fear, or illness.
Can exotic mammals be litter-trained?
Yes—rabbits, ferrets, and some rodents can be trained with patience and consistency.
How can I tell if my exotic mammal is male or female?
Some species can be visually sexed, while others require a closer examination by a veterinarian. For more information, visit our Client Education Resource Center.
Should I breed my exotic pet?
We generally do not recommend breeding without proper experience, resources, and a plan for care of the offspring. Pregnancy can be risky for some species.
Do small mammals have special needs when pregnant?
Yes. Pregnant females require specialized nutrition, quiet housing, and close monitoring. We recommend scheduling a check-up if you feel your pet may be pregnant. Not only can we make sure she and her babies are healthy, but we can also advise you on any additional needs she may have.
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