Approach to the GIT Disorders in non-traditional companion animals

Question 1

What are some of the anatomical considerations for rodents?

Answer 1

Teeth
Hindgut fermenters
Extreme adaptations
High fur density
Compound stomach
Unable to vomit

Question 2

How are GIT disorders presented in rodents?

Answer 2

Porphryin staining
Bruxism
Reduced faecal output
Loose stools
Hypersalivation
Dysphagia

Question 3

What is the diagnostic approach for rodents?

Answer 3

History
Faecal parasitology
Tape strips from rectum
Radiography
Post Mortem
Can do bloods but you rarely get a definitive diagnosis

Question 4

What are the anatomical considerations for ferrets?

Answer 4

Short transit time
Can vomit

Question 5

How would you diagnose a GIT disorder in a ferret?

Answer 5

Inflammatory bowel disease and lymphoma
Hair balls can fill the stomach
Prone to stomach ulcers

Question 6

What is the diagnostic approach for ferrets?

Answer 6

Bloods
Radiography
Ultrasound
Faecal examination
Endoscopy, Biopsy, PCR

Question 7

What are the anatomical considerations for pet birds?

Answer 7

• Beak similar function to teeth and lips
• Crop- expansion of oesophagus,
  food storage function
• Stomach pluricavity and compound
• Intestines shorter and simpler than mammals
• Paired caeca- important in chickens and
  ducks
• Cloaca- end of gastrointestinal, urinary and
  reproductive tracts

Question 8

How does GIT disorders present in pet birds?

Answer 8

Anorexia
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Weight loss/ failure to gain weight
Dysphagia
Sudden death

Question 9

What is the diagnostic approach to GIT Disorders in pet birds?

Answer 9

Bloods
Faecal examination
Radiography
Biopsy of the crop