Celebrate your small pets this October! Cats and dogs may be a family favorite, but our exotic pets have an equal part of our hearts. Keep scrolling to learn a few tips from Valley Animal Hospital to ensure your pets’ longevity and to keep them happy.
Create a Comfortable Environment
All animals are different, and some, such as rabbits, require special temperatures and environment. While summer heat can be deadly to small animals, an unpredictable winter can cause potential harm if your pet’s enclosure is not insulated correctly or the temperature fluctuates constantly.
Properly Bathe Your Animals if Necessary
Learn more about your animal’s routine health care. Not all animals need to be bathed, but it’s essential to learn about your animal’s needs.
- Ferrets need to be bathed at least once a month.
- Allow birds to bathe themselves daily.
- Guinea pigs should be cleaned only when dirty.
- Chinchillas take dust baths because water can matte or ruin their coat.
Update Your Pets Vaccines
Each species has diseases and some require vaccines to prevent illnesses. Exotic pets are a different issue; they may not necessarily need vaccines, but they need proper nutrition. Did you know guinea pigs don’t produce Vitamin C? Ask your veterinarian for guidance on nutrition, and vaccines the next time your small pet visits for a check-up.
Make Routine Visits to the Vet
Speaking of check-ups, you can maintain your pets’ health by regularly visiting the vet to be informed. Requesting half-year or yearly visits can help give insight into how your pet is doing and allow you to stay proactive before a decline in health.
Observe Your Pet’s Behavior
Your pet often may give silent cues to show how they feel in the moment. Even different types of breeds within the species may have entirely different characteristics than others. Rats are typically energetic and playful and always have a case of the zoomies, but others can be lazy, tiresome, and always eating. Provide appropriate toys and exercise devices to ensure they get the necessary movement and to nurture their curiosity.
Feed Your Animals Pet-Only Foods
Digestion is one of the main pillars of a small pet’s health. Same with dogs and cats, it’s imperative that you do not feed your pets human food or leftovers, except foods advised by your veterinarian. You could potentially harm them.
- Certain foods cause illness
- Improper portions of people food can cause animal weight gain
- Some food is a choking hazard or poisonous
The last thing you want is your little loved one’s life to be shortened because you continuously gave them people-food. Small pets cannot digest greasy foods, alcohol, or added sugars.
Read more on boosting your pet’s well-being!
Why Trust Valley Animal Hospital?
Our veterinarians care for your pets and want to ensure their lives. Whether you are starting with a pup, kit, or hatchling or caring for your senior pet, we can provide the appropriate advice and care for small pets, dogs, and cats.
Find the right service for you.
Please Schedule an Appointment with Us Today
Send us a message if you have questions about your pet’s health. You can call us to make an appointment. For after-hours emergencies, please call (956) 787 – 2709.
