Caring for Small Mammals in San Antonio, TX
Small mammals are adorable, popular pets, and like other exotics, they require specialized care. Here at Broadway Oaks Animal Hospital, we see all sorts of small mammals, including:
- Rats
- Mice
- Gerbils
- Hedgehogs
- Ferrets
- Sugar gliders
- Chinchillas
- Hamsters
- Guinea pigs
For these small mammals, husbandry and diet are key to good health. Our veterinary team can help guide you as you set up your small mammal’s enclosure and make dietary plans.
Husbandry Tips for Small Mammals:
- Proper Housing: Provide a spacious enclosure with plenty of ventilation and bedding. Make sure your pet has enough space for exercise and activities like climbing or digging tunnels in the bedding.
- Clean Environment: Prepare to regularly clean the enclosure. You should routinely remove waste and uneaten food, and replace bedding, to maintain good hygiene.
- Mental Stimulation: Offer toys, tunnels, and hiding places to help stimulate natural behaviors.
Diet Tips for Small Mammals:
- Proper Housing: Balanced Diet: A diet for small mammals should include species-specific pellets, fresh vegetables, and some fruits.
- Fresh Water: Always provide clean, fresh water in a bottle or dish.
- Avoid Harmful Foods: Limit sugary or fatty treats and avoid toxic foods like chocolate or onions.
Diagnostics for Small Mammals
They may be small, but the littlest mammals among us can deal with significant health issues. Here are a few common conditions these small mammals can face:
- Dental Problems: Overgrown teeth, particularly in rabbits and guinea pigs, can lead to pain and difficulty eating.
- Respiratory Infections: Common in animals like rats and guinea pigs, these infections are often caused by poor ventilation or unclean environments.
- Obesity: Small mammals like hamsters and guinea pigs can easily become overweight if their diet is too rich, or if they don't get enough exercise.
- Parasites: Mites, fleas, or internal parasites can cause your small pet to experience discomfort or get sick.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Diarrhea or constipation can result from an imbalanced diet or stress.
Regular veterinary care and proper husbandry can help prevent these issues.
The team at Broadway Oaks Animal Hospital offers diagnostic testing to help figure out what’s going on with your tiny friend. Our diagnostic services include:
- Physical examinations
- Bloodwork
- X-ray tests
- Parasite testing
For treatment, we offer diet and lifestyle recommendations, surgery on a case-by-case basis, and minor dentistry.
If your small mammal needs preventive care or you’re concerned about illness, reach out to us to make an appointment.