Pocket Pets Need a Vet, Too!
Most people know that dogs and cats should see a vet regularly. What some people don't know is that their small mammal pets - like rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, mice and rats - should see a vet regularly also.
When should my small mammal pet see a vet?
When you first bring your new friend home
An exam is important for any new pet to make sure he or she is healthy. Your vet is also an excellent source of information on how to properly care for your pet - there is a lot of conflicting information available to new small pet owners about what kind of food, bedding and housing is appropriate. Your vet can help you sort all this out.Any time you notice an unexplained change in your pet's habits
Small animals often hide their symptoms, so they may be more ill than they appear. If your pet is eating less than usual, sleeping more than usual, urinating more often or defecating less often than normal, or not grooming himself or playing like he usually does, he needs to see the vet!Once every 6 months to a year for a check-up, even if your pet is healthy.
Regular exams when your pet isn't sick provide your vet with valuable information, such as your pet's normal weight, appearance and behavior. This is especially important for small animals because they age rapidly. The information gained through regular exams will be very helpful to the vet if your pet ever does become ill. The vet may also notice something during a routine exam that you didn't see at home; the problem can then be treated before it becomes more noticeable and serious.
Can the vet really do anything to help if my small mammal pet becomes ill or injured?
Yes! Many people are surprised to learn how much can be done to help a sick or injured small mammal; years ago there wasn't much that could be done for these little guys. Lucky for them (and their concerned owners!), this is no longer true. Your vet can provide treatment for many small animal problems, from overgrown teeth to tumors. For example:
- If the cause of your pet's troubles isn't obvious, the vet can perform a variety of laboratory tests to help diagnose the problem, in addition to giving your pet a physical exam. In the larger small animal pets, like rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs and rats, it may be possible to do bloodwork.
- Antibiotics can be prescribed to treat infection.
- Treatment can be provided to eliminate parasites.
- Injuries can be cleaned, and may be bandaged or splinted. If necessary, stitches can be used.
- Fluids can be given.
- Pain medication can be provided for serious injuries or illnesses.
- X-rays can be taken to help diagnose illness or injury
- If necessary, it may be possible to perform surgery.
As with any other pet (or person!), the sooner your vet can begin treating a problem, the better your pet's chances are for a full recovery - so don't wait! If you see something wrong with your pet, take him or her to the vet right away!
If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, please call the Animal Hospital of Warwick at 215-343-5300. We look forward to hearing from you and your pet!