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Pet Health Library

Small Mammals + Preventive Care & Wellness

  • If you think your pet is unwell, you must take it to your veterinarian for prompt attention. ANY deviation from normal should be a cause for concern and requires immediate evaluation by your veterinarian.

  • Herbal remedies made from the Echinacea plant are very popular and used to support the immune system. It is advisable to use a blend of Echinacea, containing E. purpurea herb and E. angustifolia root since the combination improves availability of the important active ingredients.

  • In the wild, the ferret is a “whole carcase” feeder. It is an obligate carnivore with a very short gut and so is unable to deal with much, if any, fibre or carbohydrate in the diet.

  • In the wild rabbits spend many hours chewing grass. This is a tough fibrous material that also contains abrasive silicates.

  • Pet rodents can be fed a good, high quality rodent chow (pelleted food) available at pet stores.

  • It has always been customary for vets to recommend surgical neutering of ferrets. Unfortunately, it is now clear that this has been a major factor in the large increase in cases of adrenal gland disease.

  • Due to their reputation as curious creatures and escape artists, ferrets should be housed in a cage which is securely closed and locked.

  • It is most convenient to house pet rodents in wire type 'bird-cages', although cages are available specifically for these pets. Wooden cages are not suitable as rodents love to chew and can really destroy their homes.

  • Many rabbits are housed outside in a hutch with ready access to a grass run. They must have a well-sheltered warm hutch during winter and a cool area during the summer months.

  • Ferrets can make good pets. A commercial ferret food is normally recommended, and they easily learn to use a litterbox.