What you need to know to successfully live with your new Pocket Pet

Transcription

1 What you need to know to successfully live with your new Pocket Pet Basic information for owners A Publication of Sykesville Veterinary Clinic

2 Table of Contents A TINY POCKET PET FITS RIGHT INTO YOUR WELL, YES, POCKET? HAMPSTERS & GERBILS ARE THE MOST POPULAR MICE HAVE RECENTLY BECOME A FAVORITE PET OF HUMANS CONSIDER THESE FERRET CARE FACTORS BEFORE GETTING ONE FERRETS REQUIRE TIME & ATTENTION HAVING A FERRET CAN BE COSTLY CHILDREN & FERRETS SOMETIMES DON T MIX FERRETS & OTHER PETS MAY OR MAY NOT GET ALONG ARE POCKET PETS THE BEST FIRST PET TO CARE FOR? WHAT S THE APPEAL? WHAT DO YOU MEAN, THE RIGHT CHOICE? SO, IS A POCKET PET A FIRST GOOD PET? 5 QUICK TIPS ABOUT RABBIT CARE

3 Table of Contents RABBIT ILLNESSES:THE SIGNS YOU SHOULDN T IGNORE CHANGE IN APPETITE CHANGE IN STOOL APPEARANCE AND FREQUENCY CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR PRESENCE OF WEIRD LUMPS EXCESSIVE DROOLING DIFFICULTY IN BREATHING PRESSENCE OF LARGE FLAKES OR ABNORMAL HAIR LOSS HEAD TILTING AND POOR COORDINATION HOW TO PREVENT PARASITES FROM HARMING POCKET PETS MITES AND LICE FLEA AND TICK WORMS

4 Table of Contents HOW TO KNOW IF YOU NEED A GUINEA PIG VETERINARIAN SIGNS OF ILLNESS IN GUINEA PIG THEIR APPEARANCE IS OFF LOSS OF APPETITE WEIGHT LOSS DIFFICULTY WITH BOWEL MOVEMENTS TROUGLE BREATIHING PRACTICE PROPER NEW GERBIL CARE WITH THE RIGHT SUPPLIES PROVIDE YOUR NEW PET WITH A SAFE, HAPPY HOME DECIDE ON BEDDING AND WATER BOTTLE CHOICES HASTILY, BUILD A PLAY GROUND SMALL ANIMAL CARE TIPS HOW TO CLEAN UP THEIR CAGE CAGE CLEANING 101 CLEANING SCHEDULE

5 Table of Contents PREVENTATIVE CARE UNDERSTANDING SMALL ANIMAL CARE IS THE BEST PREVENTATIVE CARE A PHYSICAL EXAM WILL PICK UP ON TRHEATENING PESTS VACCINATION & ANNUAL CHECK UP PET VACCINES AND ANNUAL CHECK UPS ARE BOTH NEEDED FOR SMALL MAMMALS SPAY & NEUTER SYKESVILLE S SMALL MAMMAL SPAY & NEUTER PROCESS HAS ITS BENEFITS SURGERY WE PROVIDE SMALL MAMMAL SURGERY WITH THE HIGHEST STANDARD CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SMALL MAMMAL SURGERY AFTER CARE

6 Table of Contents DENTISTRY OUR SMALL ANIMAL DENTAL CARE SERVICES ARE CURRENT & PROGRESSIVE HOW YOU CAN HELP WITH SMALL ANIMAL DENTAL CARE GOOD DENTAL HEALTH CARE IS CRUCIAL FOR RABBITS CONDUCT REGULAR ORAL CHECK UPS INCISORS NEED EXTRA ATTENTION TAKE CARE EXAMINING THE AUXILIARY INCISORS IDENTIFYING GRINDING TEETH ISSUES TAKE PROPER OTHER PET DENTAL HEALTH CARE PRECAUTIONS

7 A Tiny Pocket Pet Fits Right into Your Well, Yes, Pocket! If you ve heard the term pocket pet, you may have guessed what it meant, and probably guessed correctly a pet so small, you can carry it in your pocket. These tiny little pets have become so popular that today, they can be found in more than four million homes in the United States. The most common pocket pets are hamsters, gerbils, mice, rats and guinea pigs; however, a number of households also own more exotic species such as sugar gilders, chinchillas, flying squirrels and hedgehogs. Many of these animals were bred as domestic pets just recently. In earlier years, such tiny creatures were regarded as nuisances and not welcomed in homes at all. If they were discovered on someone s property, people got rid of them if they could, believing all rodents carried diseases and threatened crops. However, times have changed and now these little creatures are now dubbed pocket pets and are prized and loved by many pet owners.

8 Hamsters and Gerbils are the Most Popular Hamsters and gerbils are the most common pocket pets by far, and the popularity of hamsters can be traced to the 1930s and gerbils to the 1960s. Pet hamsters are usually Syrian, Russian or Chinese in origin. Russian and Chinese hamsters thrive in groups preferably those of the same sex while solitude works best for Syrian hamsters. Regardless of origin, hamsters always need something to chew on to keep their teeth which are constantly growing at a healthy length. Hamster cages or tanks are recommended for these little pets since hamsters can squeeze their way through the cage bars that hold most pets. A good diet for hamsters is commercial hamster food plus some fruits and vegetables. Don t forget that hamsters love playing on exercise wheels and in cardboard tubes and so you should make sure to provide these for him or her. Gerbils like mingling, which means you should try to keep them in groups of the same sex. A tank with deep sawdust and tubes and branches to keep them entertained are definitely a must-have. Like hamsters, gerbils require daily servings of commercial food plus fruits and vegetables.

9 Mice Have Recently Become a Favorite Pet of Humans Mice are tiny and cute but it s their unique personality and trainability in particular that have endeared them to humans. Highly sociable, these little rodents are best grouped with others of the same sex. Cages should have bars that are not too wide apart; otherwise, the mice might escape by squeezing through the bars of normal pet cages. You may also want to add tunnels, as climbing and burrowing are among their favorite pastimes. In spite of all the cartoons about mice, cheese and other dairy products are bad for them and they don t usually like cheese anyway. Their diet should generally be a combination of commercial mouse food and fresh and washed fruits and vegetables.

10 Consider these Ferret Care Factors before Getting One While others prefer to have a pet cat or dog, perhaps you d rather have a ferret for company. It would be no surprise to us that you would, since ferrets are curious, playful, loving and social creatures that make wonderful pets and are quite easy to care for. But of course, there are some ferret care factors to consider before you make your final decision in owning one, such as the following.

11 Ferrets Require Time and Attention Although they are not difficult to care for, ferrets still need your time and attention. They are more suitable for people who have more time in their day for their pets. During most of the day, they are naturally quiet and friendly, but there are also times when they can be overly active. They will need occasional supervision so they don t get in any serious trouble. As with any pet, they require your attention to maintain their physical and mental health. You need to be able to provide them with their basic needs like food, water and shelter, as well as some bonding activities to keep them intelligent and inquisitive. If you are very busy with your job and you barely have time for yourself, you should think twice about getting a pet ferret.

12 Having a Ferret Can be Costly The cost of buying a pet ferret varies, depending on where you adopt one. But paying for ownership is just the beginning. Owning a ferret also means you have to buy a cage for shelter, nutritious food for everyday intake and other ferret care supplies such as shampoo, a collar, cage cleaner and so on. You also have to shoulder the cost of any medications, vitamin supplements and vaccinations. All these costs should be considered in order for you to determine if you can comfortably afford having a pet ferret.

13 Children and Ferrets Sometimes Don t Mix Do you have children at home? How old are your kids? Are they excited about having a pet ferret? If they are, you re in luck because that s already half the work. Keep in mind though that ferrets can t be left under the supervision of a child. Older children may be able to handle this pet, but it s a different story for younger ones. In fact, ferrets are generally not recommended for households with children ages 6 or below. Ferrets and Other Pets May or May Not Get Along It s not only the kids that you should be worried about but also your other pets. What other pets do you have at home? Take note that ferrets don t usually get along with birds or small animals like rabbits, fish or gerbils, because ferrets are natural hunters. If you insist on adopting a pet ferret even when you already have other pets, you will need to keep a close eye at all times to maintain peace and order in your home. Ferrets are lovable creatures that we re sure you will enjoy having as a pet, but these ferret care factors should still be regarded beforehand. By doing so, it may be more likely that you two will have a smoothsailing relationship between pet and pet owner.

14 Are Pocket Pets the Best First Pet to Care For? Pocket pets. Many of us have heard the term, but do you know exactly what it is describing? In a nutshell, pocket pets are exotic animals such as flying squirrels, spiny mice and hedgehogs, all who have risen in pet popularity over the years. While their small size and stature may make them look all cute and cuddly, they require special care and handling. What s the Appeal? Kids and adults alike are oftentimes drawn to pocket pets for a whole range of reasons. From the fact that they are just plain different from other pets to their adorableness, it is easy to see why pocket pets are becoming such a phenomenon. All that being said, selecting a pet that is right for your home is no small feat, and this is also true for pocket pets. If your kid is just begging you for a hedgehog, it is important you sit down with your local small animal vet and make sure this is the right choice for your family.

15 What Do You Mean, The Right Choice? Because some small pets require massive amounts of care and attention and others prefer to be left alone, they may not always be the right first pet choice for your family. Unfortunately, pocket pets frequently wind up in climates they are not suited for, leading to many serious problems for both the pet and its caretakers. Furthermore, pocket pets have a higher risk of carrying diseases that are foreign to their new habitat. It may seem like we are trying to scare you off from bringing a pocket pet into your home, but that is not the case! We simply want to make sure you understand all the different facets of small pet ownership. If it is the right fit, a pocket pet can make a wonderful, enriching addition to your home. So, is a Pocket Pet a First Good Pet? There is no all-encompassing answer to this question. For starters, you need to some research and meet with your vet in order to ensure you understand all the responsibilities that come along with owning a small animal. Consider whether you d like the type of pet you can curl up on the couch with or play fetch, or if you prefer to watch at a distance.

16 So, is a Pocket Pet a First Good Pet? While you there are a few pocket pets that you may be able to snuggle with (like a chinchilla), chances are this notion is off limits for most small pets. Furthermore, there are quite a few pets within the pocket pet category that aren t a good fit for households with preschoolers, such as hamsters, lizards, rabbits, ferrets and box turtles. That being said, there are a handful of pocket pets that will fit in with households with children of any age. If your preschooler is begging you for a small animal to call their very own, take the following into consideration: Beta fish Guinea pig Hermit crab In order to ensure you are bringing the right pet into your family, contact us at Sykesville Vet Clinic today. Our knowledgeable veterinarians are on hand to help you with important decisions such as these when it comes to owning a pet. Pocket pet care comes with a handful of special instructions, which is why it is imperative you understand what you are getting into and what will be required of you.

17 5 Quick Tips about Rabbit Care As fun and rewarding as it is, rabbit care is no easy-peasy job. Yes, rabbits make for delightful pets. They re affectionate, social, smart and easy to train. But rabbits are also delicate and complex creatures, with specific, even high-maintenance needs that are not always easy to meet. So to help you start off on the right track, here are five quick tips for raising a healthy and happy bunny. 1: Keep the Hay Coming The star of your rabbit s diet is hay, not carrots. Rich in fiber, hay helps with your bunny s digestion and reduces the risk of hair balls, obesity and diarrhea. It also contains silicate and lignin, which help keep his or her continuously growing teeth at a proper length. That s why hay should be available 24/7. Every morning, place a bundle in a hay rack or in a basket where it can hang above floor level and stay clean. Put some hay in her bed too, so she can sit and snack at the same time. Not any kind of hay will do though. The hay you feed your rabbit must be fresh, dust-free and sweet-smelling. For the best quality, stick to timothy or brome grass hay.

18 2: Make Room for Exercise Your bunny needs to engage in regular physical activity. So in addition to a shelter (hutch, cage or shed), set up or designate an exercise area where they can hop, jump, run around, play and explore. You could go with a traditional outdoor exercise run or keep it indoors with a pen, enclosure or rabbit-proofed room (in this case, rabbit proofing means covering wires or cables or keeping them out of reach). What s important is that the space is large enough, escapeproof, safe and easily accessible from the main shelter. 3: Handle with Care Rabbits have fragile bones and are not inherently keen on being held, cuddled or carried around tightly. The key is to proceed with caution. Do not come up to her directly in front, as she won t see you (rabbits have laterally placed eyes) and therefore might be startled when you attempt to pick her up. When lifting him or her, be gentle but steady. Support their forequarters and hindquarters simultaneously, with one hand underneath the front side and the other hand at the back. Then bring him or her against your body to make them feel secure. If your rabbit struggles to get down, carefully lower him or her to the floor. Practice lifting them regularly and soon enough they ll feel comfortable with being handled.

19 4: Do it Yourself You can extend your love for DIY projects to rabbit care, specifically playtime. While rabbits need a variety of objects that they can manipulate and move, you don t have to buy fancy toys to keep them happy. You can actually make safe, entertaining and stimulating toys from stuff you have at home. For instance, you could offer cardboard tubes (paper-towel or toiletpaper tolls) and old telephone books (without the glossy covers) as chew toys. Package treats in brown paper so she can unwrap them. Cut holes in cardboard boxes or remove the handles of paper bags and then set them up as hiding places. Or fill cardboard boxes halfway with shredded newspaper to create digging boxes. 5: Make it Smell Familiar Rabbits do not only use scent to mark their territory; they rely on familiar smells to feel safe and at ease in new environments. Going out of town? Whether you plan to travel with or board your rabbits, it s important to put familiar-smelling items such as their favorite toys in the carrier as well as keep grouped/paired rabbits together. Just finished cleaning the shelter? Place a small amount of their used bedding in the toilet area. This helps reduce the stress your rabbit may be experiencing after the cleaning. There is no single correct way to approach rabbit care; only you can determine what s best for your little bunny. Once you identify and understand his or her specific needs, it s mostly about ensuring all those needs are met. With such an adorable and lovable creature at your side, that s a challenge worth embracing.

20 Rabbit Illnesses: The Signs You Shouldn t Ignore As with humans, prevention is key when it comes to rabbit illnesses. In fact, most diseases in rabbits can be avoided through appropriate care, vaccinations, spaying or neutering, a proper diet, and clean living quarters. But sometimes, your pet bunny can still get sick. Here are signs to watch out for: Change in Appetite When a rabbit suddenly develops an increased or decreased appetite for food, this could be an indication of a problem in the gastrointestinal tract. Decreased appetite is especially something to look into. Change in Stool Appearance and Frequency Checking on the stool is a good way to gauge your rabbit s health. Rabbits on a healthy diet produce large, well-formed fecal pellets. Small or loose stools could indicate bacterial or parasitic disease in which case, you need to quarantine the rabbit if you have other pets and to the vet for an examination.

21 Change in Behavior Growling, biting, and attacking are common in rabbits that have not been spayed or neutered. If the rabbit is exhibiting such hostile behavior afterwards, then the aggressiveness could be caused by pain or adrenal-related rabbit illnesses. Presence of Weird Lumps Abscesses, cysts, or cancer can cause abnormal skin masses in rabbits. Once you notice the presence of lumps, take your pet to the vet immediately for a diagnosis and the appropriate treatment. Excessive Drooling Slobbering, along with a loss of appetite and hair loss around the mouth and nose, could indicate a dental issue. Dental problems in rabbits could be caused by diet, infections, trauma, genetics, and many other factors. Difficulty in Breathing Rabbits breathe only through their nose, so if they have difficulty breathing, have your pet checked for upper respiratory tract problems, which can also be indicated by nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing.

22 Presence of Large Flakes or Abnormal Hair Loss While some rabbits shed big clumps of fur as a normal part of molting, massive hair loss may be caused by fungal infections. This is worth looking into as these conditions are contagious if you have other pets. If your rabbit is exhibiting excessive flakiness, it could be a sign of an infection caused by mites, which can affect both humans and animals. Head Tilting and Poor Coordination Head tilting is usually caused by a problem with the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. Apart from head tilting, a rabbit with vestibular disease may also exhibit poor coordination when trying to hop around that could lead to injuries. Not all signs of rabbit illnesses lead to life-threatening conditions, but it s still a good idea to consult your vet if you are not 100% sure about what your pet bunny is going through. It is also important for you to take your pet to the vet at least once a year before the age of 4 and every 6 months or so. A physical examination with one of our Sykesville vets will help determine whether your rabbit is sick or healthy. For more info on Rabbits check out: House Rabbit Society

23 How to Prevent Parasites from Harming Pocket Pets Common pests and parasites that usually infest cats and dogs can also affect pocket pets, such as guinea pigs, ferrets, gerbils, hamsters, and rabbits. Unfortunately, the medications that work for your other pets may not be the best treatment for smaller animals. Preventative care in these cases is crucial. Here are the various parasites that can harm pocket pets and the preventative actions you can do to keep them safe.

24 Mites and Lice Common pests and parasites that usually infest cats and dogs can also affect pocket pets, such as guinea pigs, ferrets, Excessive itching, flaky skin, and hair loss are commonly caused by mites and lice in rabbits, ferrets, and even rats. Red, itchy ears with a black crust could be due to ear mites, which can be transmitted from cats and dogs to pocket pets. Mites and lice can also transfer to humans, so treating the infestation should be done as soon as possible upon discovery. If you think your pocket pet has mites or lice, visit your vet for a physical examination and ask for recommended medicines you can apply. You also need to thoroughly clean and sanitize your pet s beddings, cage, and surroundings. Additionally, you need to make sure to give them new food and beddings to prevent re-infestation. gerbils, hamsters, and rabbits. Unfortunately, the medications that work for your other pets may not be the best treatment for smaller animals. Preventative care in these cases is crucial. Here are the various parasites that can harm pocket pets and the preventative actions you can do to keep them safe.

25 Flea and Tick Fleas are most commonly found in cats and dogs but they can also infest ferrets, rabbits, and small rodents. Unfortunately, these parasites can cause severe anemia in small animals because of the amount of blood they ingest. Fleas can also transmit serious diseases, such as typhus, which can affect humans. To prevent a flea infestation, ask your vet for year-round flea and tick control products that are safe to use around pocket pets. Wash, vacuum, and clean each room where they most commonly reside in for best results. Contact your vet as soon as possible if you think your pet has fleas and make sure you don t use flea treatment products intended for cats or dogs on your pocket pet. Ticks Pocket pets allowed to go in the backyard, such as rabbits and ferrets, are susceptible to ticks. Because these parasites are known for being disease-carriers, make sure to check your pet for ticks every time you allow him or her to go outside. Once you find a tick on your pet, call your vet immediately so you can be instructed you on what to do next; do not attempt to remove the tick yourself. Although infestation from these common parasites can be treated, keeping your pocket pets from them in the first place is still the best way to go. Make sure you take them to the vet for their annual physical checkup so you and your veterinarian can catch potential problems before they become worse.

26 Worms Worms are not as commonly observed in pocket pets as other parasites, but they can affect smaller mammals nonetheless. Your pet ferret, for instance, can become infected with heartworms, a parasite that can cause serious problems if not treated right away. Diarrhea and other symptoms can signal the presence of worms, which your vet can confirm in an exam. Prevent the possibility of spreading worms by always washing your hands after handling or cuddling your pet. It s also important to keep your pet s beddings, cage, and eating areas clean and sanitized. There are medications to treat worms in small animals. Heartgard, for instance, is given to pets infected with heartworms.

27 How to Know if You Need a Guinea Pig Veterinarian Guinea pigs are wonderful little companions that are actually quite healthy, overall. However, if they do happen to get sick, their health can deteriorate rapidly and it can cause a great deal of heartache for pet owners. If you don t know the signs and symptoms of illness in guinea pigs, you are at risk of losing your little furry companion in the blink of an eye. However, by taking the time to educate yourself and family members about the signs of sickness in guinea pigs, you have a far greater chance of saving their life. At Sykesville Veterinary Clinic, our veterinarians are here to answer any questions you may have and make sure you understand how to properly care for your adorable little friend. As with most things related to our pets, taking a proactive approach and making sure we have all the information necessary to provide them with the highest level of care is absolutely imperative. If you are thinking about adopting a guinea pig or have recently done so, it is important you seek out a knowledgeable guinea pig veterinarian and schedule an appointment right away. They will provide you with information on how to adequately care for them, including what health problems you should be on the lookout for. If caught early, the majority of guinea pig illnesses can be treated and cured fairly easily.

28 Signs of Illness in Guinea Pigs As we ve discussed, part of being a responsible guinea pig owner is to monitor your adorable guinea pig for any indications or signs of illness. Guinea pigs are loving, resilient animals with big personalities, but they can fall victim to a wide range of diseases and conditions, just like any other animal. Here are a few important signs that may indicate your guinea pig is sick that you should be aware of: Their Appearance is off A healthy guinea pig should have soft, shiny fur, and bright eyes. One of the first signs something is amiss with their health is when their fur appears unkempt, messy, greasy, or matted. If their eyes look sunken, are crusty, or are watery, this may also indicate that something is wrong. Another warning sign in regards to their appearance is if their stomach is bloated. Also be on the lookout for hair loss, as this could mean they are not feeling like themselves. Loss of Appetite A tell-tale sign that your guinea pig is sick or has come down with something is when they stop eating. Guinea pigs LOVE to eat, so if they are no longer interested in their food, it may be time to take them to a guinea pig veterinarian. Another sign along these same lines is if your guinea pig appears to have excessive thirst.

29 Weight Loss Sudden and extreme weight loss is definitely a red flag in any animal, and guinea pigs are no different. If you notice your pet has dropped weight suddenly (which could be connected to the above point), he or she may be sick and should see a veterinarian right away. Difficulty with Bowel Movements If you notice your furry buddy is having a hard time defecating or urinating, he or she may be sick. Yet another sign related to this is if there is blood in your pig s feces or urine. Diarrhea is another indicator that your guinea pig needs to see the vet. Trouble with Breathing Last but certainly not least, if you notice your guinea pig is rasping, wheezing, or having trouble breathing otherwise, he or she may be ill. If you notice any of the above signs or if your guinea pig has changed behavior in any way, it is important that you call your vet immediately. If caught early, they will be able to treat your guinea pig with antibiotics in most cases. Please feel free to contact us at Sykesville Veterinary Clinic with any additional questions or to schedule an appointment today.

30 Practice Proper New Gerbil Care with the Right Supplies Practice Proper New Gerbil Care with the Right Supplies One of the biggest steps in gerbil care before you bring your new pet home is to get the supplies he or she needs. This will set things off on the right track and help them grow happy and healthy. Here s a quick guide on how to choose the best supplies for your gerbil.

31 Provide Your New Pet with a Safe, Happy Home Gerbils are explorers and highly social creatures by nature. They love digging, jumping, climbing, running and chewing, so when picking out their new home you need to look for something spacious, safe and sturdy. While a wire cage usually works, you can also choose a glass or plastic aquarium for one or two gerbils. Aquariums are roomy, draft-proof and leak-proof compared to the wire cages. The downside is aquariums are more difficult to clean, and some standard water bottles for gerbils won t latch on properly. If you do decide on an aquarium over a wire care, you will have to place a wire mesh covering over the top to prevent your gerbil from escaping. A thin screen won t do, as your gerbil might chew their way out of it. Lid clips will also help make the cage extra-safe.

32 Decide on Bedding and Water Bottle Choices Decide on Bedding and Water Bottle Choices The best choices of bedding for gerbils are aspen, corncob, Carefresh, hardwood or Timothy hay. Cedar and pine versions are not recommended because of the fumes they can emit when they re soiled. It s best to fill one-third of the aquarium with the shavings so that you will both provide a bathroom and something your pet can dig or burrow into. Use shredded strips of paper or tissue (plain, white and unscented) as nesting material. Your gerbil can hide or sleep in this or simply retreat to it when he or she needs some privacy. Avoid using anything made from wool, cotton or fluffy materials. Inverted, stoppered water bottles are usually the best bets for gerbils. This type doesn t spill or clog easily and can be attached to the side of the aquarium using a holder or shield. You will have to place it at the proper height for your pet, as well as choose either a bottle from plastic or glass for easier cleaning.

33 Hastily, Build a Playground Gerbils are extremely active, so devising ways to keep them busy and entertained is both a priority and a pleasure. To help your gerbil get the most out of their daily routine, you can use the following options: Tubes next time you finish off a roll of tissue paper, place the cardboard tube in your gerbil s aquarium. Before you know it, they ll be running in and out of the tube then shortly after gnawing on it. Exercise wheel make playtime even more fun with an exercise wheel. Find a solid one with no rungs or openings would work best. Chew toys a lot of a gerbil s physical activity involves chewing since their teeth are always growing, so give him or her something safe to gnaw on. That way, they can keep their teeth at the right length. Besides tissue, paper towel and cardboard tubes, it s fine to leave in a sterilized bone or a twig. You can also buy special wooden chew toys. Fruit tree branches gerbils love climbing branches just as much as they enjoy running on sloping ramps. By practicing proper gerbil care, your new pet will live a longer, happier life. Choosing supplies wisely and creating a safe and entertaining environment that he or she can thrive in is the best way to start. Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Sykesville Veterinary Clinic and a clickable link back to this page.

34 Small Animal Care Tips: How to Clean Up their Cage Small Animal Care Tips: How to Clean Up their Cage Owning a pocket pet will surely bring a lot of joy and entertainment into your life, but there are also a handful of important responsibilities within small animal care that you must keep in mind. Whether you own a guinea pig, rabbit, ferret or other kind of smaller pet, it is imperative to clean their cage on a regular basis. Since they will spend the large majority of their time in a cage, it is easy to see why staying on top of cleaning their home is so important. Routine cage cleaning plays a large role in the overall health, safety and happiness of your pet. A clean cage will provide an enjoyable, odor-free space for your guinea pig, rabbit, gerbil, hamster or ferret to kick back and relax, play and get a good night s rest. So if you are thinking about getting a pocket pet such as the ones listed above, be sure you know what is involved when it comes to cleaning their cage.

35 Cage Cleaning 101 Here is a brief overview of what you will need and what tasks should be performed when cleaning your small animal s cage. It is a good idea to assemble a kit that you can use solely for cleaning the cage. Be sure to store these items separate from your household cleaning supplies in order to avoid cross-contamination. You will need the following: Back-up cage While you are cleaning the cage, you will need a clean, secure environment for your small pet. Brushes The size of brush necessary will vary depending on what size of cage you have. A used toothbrush may also be a good idea in order to reach corners and crevices. Paper towels or rags Rubber gloves and goggles Sponges Make sure you have several different sponges; one set for cleaning, one for rinsing and one for disinfecting.

36 Cleaning Schedule This will vary depending on the size and habits of your small pet, but it may be helpful to do some research on your particular breed of animal to get a better idea of what is typical. However, the following tips are a good place to start: Clean the cage daily to remove any spills, uneaten food, and urine or feces. Clean and disinfect food and water dishes on a daily basis. Clean and disinfect the cage and all its accessories weekly. Bag and get rid of all disposable bedding and litter. Clean all cage surfaces with hot soap and water. Wash and disinfect any cage accessories. Once you have finished disinfecting, make sure to cage is rinsed thoroughly and dried before re-introducing your pet to it. The above listed tips are designed to help you maintain a clean, odorless cage as well as demonstrate excellent small animal care in general. This is not just for the benefit of you and your family, but most of all it s for the overall health and well-being of your pocket pet. Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Sykesville Veterinary Clinic and a clickable link back to this page.

37 Preventative Care

38 Understanding Small Animal Care is the Best Preventive Care Your pocket pet should have an annual physical exam that can catch problems in the beginning stages rather than coming in when the problem is bad. It s beneficial to you and your small friend to come in yearly for optimum care! Sykesville Veterinary Clinic offers annual checkups for most small animals, including: rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, gerbils and hamsters.

39 A Physical Exam will Pick Up on Threatening Pests Your small animal, like a cat or dog, is prone to external parasites. The type of pocket pet you have will change what you parasite control solutions you should be looking for! Rabbits and ferrets can be susceptible to ear and manage mites while guinea pigs are a risk for lice. There are special parasite prevention medications you can buy to suit your small mammal s needs.

40 Vaccinations & Annual Checkup

41 Pet Vaccinations and Annual Checkups are Both Needed for Small Mammals Depending on what type of small pet you have, they can receive pet vaccinations for distemper (for ferrets). It is important to get them vaccinated in the recommended time and also give them a booster every year during their physical exam. Even though you do have a small pet it is important to still have an annual exam just like a dog or cat would. The health of your small pet is important and needs to be monitored to make sure they are as healthy as possible.

42 Spay and Neuter

43 Sykesville s Small Mammal Spay and Neuter Process Has Its Benefits Similar to cats and dogs, it is recommended that you have your small pet spayed or neutered. If you own a ferret, domestic rabbit, gerbil or guinea pig, the health and environmental benefits of having him or her spayed are tenfold. Small mammal spay and neuter efforts are implemented to reduce the number of animals that need homes, which is why we are strong advocates for spaying or neutering all animals that come through our clinic. There are many benefits to spaying or neutering your house rabbit or ferret for example. First and foremost, a fixed rabbit or ferret will have a greater chance of living a longer, healthier life. This is largely due to the fact that the risk of cancer and urinary tract infections are greatly reduced when a small animal is fixed.

44 The age in which a small animal should be spayed will depend on the type of animal as well as his medical history and current state of health. At Sykesville Veterinary Clinic, we will work with each and every client to ensure all the necessary information is conveyed. We believe in keeping open communication lines and working with pet owners to ensure the right decision is made for both pet owner and animal. If you have any questions about spaying or neutering a small animal, please do not hesitate to contact our clinic today. We will be able to go over the specific health benefits for each type of animal, as well as what you should expect post-surgery and during the recovery process.

45 Surgery

46 We Provide Small Mammal Surgery with the Highest Standard of Care For small mammal surgery we perform spay and neuter, dental, growth removal and bladder stones. We do not offer orthopedic or cardiac care, but we will refer you and your pet to a specialist that we trust that offers the same high standard of care. We will make sure your pet is as comfortable as possible with our state of the art equipment and monitor their progress through the procedure. It is important to watch your pet and report any changes you see in your pet s behavior.

47 Contact Us for More Information on Small Mammal Surgery Aftercare What you need to know going into surgery is to talk to your vet about aftercare procedures. We will make you as comfortable as possible and informed of what the procedure will entail. We will let you know if there are any stipulations that you need to perform before coming in the day of the surgery.

48 Dentistry Our Small Animal Dental Care Services are Current and Progressive At Sykesville Veterinary Clinic, we offer a wide range of dentistry services for small animals. We are focused on providing the most current and progressive oral health care for small pets, which is why we offer numerous services and tips for owners of small pets. Small animals face many of the same problems with their teeth and gums as humans do, which is where our dentistry services come in. Small animals can experience common conditions, such as tooth decay, periodontal disease, cracked or broken teeth, abscesses and oral cancer. Fortunately, our small animal dental care services include regular dental checkups and cleanings, which will go a long way towards preventing these types of conditions from developing into more serious problems. We strongly suggest you perform at-home brushings and exam your pet s mouth, gums, and teeth on a regular basis to ensure the overall oral health and wellness of your pet.

49 How You Can Help with Small Animal Dental Care It is important for small animals to have a variety of toys and treats to chew on to help file their teeth down and keep them as healthy as possible. Failing to provide your pet with the right toys and treats could damage their mouth and cause pain. It may also be a good idea to file your pet s teeth down every once in a while, as it will help promote healthy teeth and good oral hygiene. If you have any questions regarding the dental care of your small animal, please do not hesitate to contact our clinic. Our friendly staff is in place to offer you at-home tips and tricks to help with the dental care of your pet, as well as information on what to expect from the dental cleanings and checkups provided at Sykesville.

50 Good Pet Dental Health Care is Crucial for Rabbits If you own a pet rabbit, you know all too well that rabbits are nonstop chewers and require the best in pet dental health care. They chew not only to eat and ingest a high-fiber diet but also for other reasons, such as: expressing happiness, pain or frustration; adjusting to their environment; exploring new objects; marking their territory; grooming themselves, and more. For all these reasons, pet owners should be knowledgeable about rabbit dental care measures. Remember, it is important to detect problems early in order to consult a veterinarian and administer proper treatment right away. Your little bunny s survival depends on good oral health.

51 Conduct Regular Oral Checkups Start by checking your pet s head and face. Have your pet sit in front of you with their back facing you. Touch the sides of their face and under the jaw. Take note if both sides feel the same. Check if there are any swellings or bulges on any side. Apply a firmer pressure on the side of the jaws and see if your rabbit flinches at some point. If he or she does, there must be pain in the mouth. If there is, or if you notice any changes, be sure to report to the vet as soon as possible.

52 Incisors Need Extra Attention Examine the incisor teeth, which are located at the front of the jaw and are easy to check. Have your rabbit lie down in front of you and part the lips gently as if to make him or her smile. The four big teeth the two teeth on the top and two teeth on the bottom are the incisors and they should not be loose. The gums should be a healthy pink, and not purple or red. Also check to see if there are any foreign objects around the teeth. If the teeth do not meet when they close, this might mean that the rabbit has a malocclusion. Consult your vet regarding this problem. Take Care Examining the Auxiliary Incisors Check the auxiliary incisors, which are the teeth behind the upper incisors that look like pegs, and, therefore, called peg teeth. They rarely cause any problems but, just to be sure, make these a part of your routine checkup. Start by checking your pet s head and face. Have your pet sit in front of you with their back facing you. Touch the sides of their face and under the jaw. Take note if both sides feel the same. Check if there are any swellings or bulges on any side. Apply a firmer pressure on the side of the jaws and see if your rabbit flinches at some point. If he or she does, there must be pain in the mouth. If there is, or if you notice any changes, be sure to report to the vet as soon as possible.

53 Identify Grinding Teeth Issues Inspect the cheek teeth, which are also known as the grinding teeth, and see if there are any problems. These are the teeth that can be found in the far back of the mouth. You should watch for the following signs: drooling, wetness around the mouth, swelling, warmth, pain in the jaw, or pain under the chin. There may also be changes in food preferences some rabbits prefer to chew on softer foods when in pain. As well, there can be a loss of appetite, loss of weight, bad breath, a frequent grinding of these teeth and grumpy behavior. Take other Pet Dental Health Care Precautions In addition to conducting regular checkups, you also need to create a safe environment for your pet. Provide safe chewing objects such as dried pinecones, straw mats and cardboard. Keep him or her away from dangerous areas such as places where there are electrical wires, and don t let your rabbit swallow any small items that can obstruct his airways. Always keep a watchful eye on your pet bunny. Accidents can happen when you least expect them so you must always be careful. Along with conducting regular face and tooth checkups of your rabbit, take him or her to a veterinarian for professional pet dental health care checkups or for any other related problems as soon as they occur.

54 Was the information in this book helpful? What other information would you like to know? Let us know at: Sykesville Veterinary Clinic 20 Liberty Rd., Suite C Sykesville, MD Check out our web site for more information: Veterinary-Clinic /?ref=aymt_homepage_pa nel A Publication of Sykesville Veterinary Clinic