6 Signs of illness in exotic pets
Just like dogs and cats, exotic pets are good at hiding pain & illness. As a result, owners and vets play an important role towards recognising early signs that something is not right with your pet.
Always play close attention to your pet and look for any changes to their behaviour, general appearance, toileting and eating habits, as this can give you an insight into their overall health. Take your exotic pet to the vet if you notice any changes in the following areas.
Appearance - changes to your exotic pets appearance such as their skin, fur, feathers, weight loss or gain, squinting, swelling, lump or bumps, strange odour or overall scruffy appearance.
Eating/drinking habits – are they eating or drinking less or more? Have they gone off certain foods in their usual diet? Are they having any difficulties eating or drinking?
Toileting habits – changes in your exotic pet’s stools or urine can indicate a change in their health. An increase or decrease in their stools, changes in colour, texture, diarrhea or straining to go to the toilet are all areas that require attention from your vet.
Behaviour – changes in behaviour such as lethargy, excessive grooming, sudden aggression, hiding, less physical activity or anything else out of the ordinary can indicate an underlying health issue.
Breathing – if your pet is breathing rapidly, wheezing, sneezing, has excess saliva production or is making strange sounds while breathing they need to be taken to the vet.
Moving around – if you pet is limping, unable to stand/sit, perch or general difficulties moving around.
Exotic pet healthcare
Having access to the right vet care is important when you own an exotic pet as they have unique healthcare requirements. At Woofpurnay Veterinary Hospital we offer exotic pet care for rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, rats, mice, birds and reptiles.
At Woofpurnay we recommend annual health checks for all pets, including exotics. Annual health checks are a great way to keep your exotic pet in their best possible shape. They also help your vet identify and treat any health concerns before they become serious. A full examination allows your vet to take a closer look at your pet, whilst also giving you the opportunity to ask about any questions or concerns you might have.
Always play close attention to your pet and look for any changes to their behaviour, general appearance, toileting and eating habits as this can give you an insight into their overall health. If you have any concerns about your exotic pet, please give us a call on 03 8784 4444.