Importance of Regular Veterinary Care for Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Hamsters
Small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters are cute and cuddly, and make great family pets. And just like dogs and cats, these adorable little fur balls need wellness and preventive care to live their healthiest, happiest lives.
At Ark Animal Hospital, we offer full-service veterinary care for pocket pets, birds, and other exotic pets. Pocket pets and exotics have specific dietary, housing, and enrichment needs, and we’re happy to discuss these requirements with you at your new pet’s first visit. Keep reading for our team’s tips on caring for rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters.
Hopping Good Rabbit Care
Rabbits are good pets for people who enjoy cuddling up with a loving companion but who may not be able to take daily walks with a dog. Rabbits can also be litter box trained, which makes them convenient to clean up after and perfect pets for people in apartments.
Proper rabbit veterinary care is essential, and your pet rabbit should be examined by a veterinarian soon after you bring your rabbit home. Spaying or neutering your pet rabbit is recommended. Spaying prevents females from developing uterine cancer, and neutering reduces unwanted behaviors like urine spraying in males.
Rabbits do not need vaccines, but annual exams are recommended to check for signs of dental disease, parasites, bloat, and other common conditions in rabbits.
Taking Care of Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs make great first pets because they are generally docile and friendly. Plan to adopt more than one, however, because these social little guys are happiest when they’re living with other guinea pigs. It is usually recommended to adopt a pair or trio of guinea pigs that are the same sex. Sterilizing guinea pigs is uncommon since they don’t tolerate anesthesia well.
Routine vet care for guinea pigs is critical because, as a prey species, guinea pigs are programmed to hide any signs of illness. Common conditions in guinea pigs include overgrown teeth, obesity, and digestive issues. In addition to a thorough physical exam, we can also demonstrate how to properly trim your guinea pig’s nails. Your guinea pig does not need any vaccines.
Do Hamsters Need To Go To the Vet?
Hamsters are popular family pets because they’re inexpensive, entertaining, and their habitats need minimal space. These tiny creatures may seem self-sufficient, but they should be examined by a veterinarian within 48 hours of coming home, and at least annually after that. Hamsters do not need vaccines, but the growth of their teeth should be monitored, and fecal tests should be performed regularly because hamsters are prone to parasites.
Experienced Care for Pocket Pets and Exotics
We’re happy to offer your pocket pets and other exotic animals the benefits of preventive care, diagnostics, grooming, and other important veterinary care. Please contact us at (215) 822-3636 to schedule your pet’s appointment.