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Ferrets, rabbits and rodents Flashcards

1
Q

Ferrets are what classs

A

Class Mammalia; Order Carnivora; Family Mustelidae (related to weasels, mink, badgers and skunks)

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2
Q

What is the anatomy and physiology of ferrets

A

True Carnivores
Most anatomy/physiology similar to that of cats (although elongated)
Heart is very caudal in the thorax; sinus arrhythmia common
Spleen often very large and palpable, if smooth, not clinically significant

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3
Q

What vaccines are given to ferrets

A

Need to be vaccinated for Rabies and Canine Distemper
Rabies given annually
Distemper - 3 sets at 8, 12, 16 weeks, then annually
Vaccine reactions somewhat common – monitor for 20 min post vaccine

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4
Q

What is commonly removed from ferrets before being sold

A

Most ferrets are sold already spayed/neutered and have had anal glands removed

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5
Q

Why do ferrets smell

A

Most of the smell comes from scent glands in the skin, not anal glands, and the smell decreases significantly after spay/neuter

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6
Q

What kind of ovulators are ferrets

A

Induced ovulators, so can stay in heat for extended periods of time – increased estrogen can lead to pancytopenia
Anemia/thrombocytopenia can be fatal

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7
Q

What are the normal values for a ferret

A

Temperature – 37.8C–40.0C
HR – 250-300bpm
RR – 33-36/min
Urine pH – 6.5-7.5
Average Lifespan – 6-10 years

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8
Q

What are common diesases affecting ferrets

A

Adrenal disease
Insulinoma
foreign bodies
Human influenza
Lymphoma
Ear mites
COVID 19

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9
Q

What are common adrenal disases for ferrets

A

Hyperadrenocorticism
Hypertrophy/adenoma/adenocarcinoma of adrenal glands
Not Cushings – not overproducing cortisol
Overproduction of sex hormones

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10
Q

What are the clincial signs of adrenal disease of ferrets

A

Bilateral alopecia (may be seasonal/cyclic) most common c/s
Others include increased odor, sexual/dominant behaviour, vulvar swelling, prostate enlargement (difficult urination), or pruritis

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11
Q

How do you diagnose adrenal disase with ferrets

A

Blood test for hormone levels, US to look for enlarged adrenals
Often based on C/S

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12
Q

How do you treat ferrets with adrenal disease

A

Surgical – expensive, risky and not always effective
Medical – Monthly injections; implant put under the skin

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13
Q

What is insulioma with ferrets

A

Functional tumour of the beta cells of the pancreas
Causes an overproduction of insulin which leads to hypoglycemia

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14
Q

What are the clinical signs with insulinoma for ferrets

A

Episodic/acute weakness or periods of unresponsiveness/glazed expression
Salivation, chomping/pawing at mouth or seizures can occur

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15
Q

How do you diagnose insulinoma in ferrets

A

Blood glucose during a weakness episode; can test insulin levels, but not usually necessary

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16
Q

How do you treat ferrets with insulinoma

A

Feed a high protein diet, avoid sugary treats
Surgical – removal of part or half of the pancreas may increase time before medical treatment is required
Medical
Acute – IV/oral glucose, diazepam for seizures
Prednisone daily

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17
Q

Are foreign bodies common in ferrets and why

A

Like to chew on everything; foreign bodies quite common
Surgical

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18
Q

What does human infleunza look like in a ferret

A

Can catch from Owners and vice versa
Sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, etc

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19
Q

Where is lymphoma common in ferrets and how to treat

A

Can occur in any organ
Chemotherapy possible

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20
Q

When do you check for ear mites on ferrets

A

Very common – always check at first appointment

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21
Q

How do ferrets get COVID 19

A

Ferrets, like cats, are susceptible to COVID 19
Can catch it, but unlikely to transmit it to people

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22
Q

What is the ferrets natural routine

A

Do NOT require elaborate enclosures
Ground dwellers
Naturally will go down and under things to sleep
Enjoy sleeping sacs on cage floor – safer and easier to access
If using hammocks or condo style enclosure need to pad floors and ramps
Poor vision – results in injury

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23
Q

What should a ferrets cage be made with

A

Medium to large dog kennels are often fine
Do not usually play in den so set it up for sleeping
Water bottle, full food cup, soft bedding, litter box at the opposite end
When they are out to play leave door open to ensure constant access to food and water

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24
Q

What should a ferrets substrate look like

A

Substrates: NO wood shavings, corn cob, recycled paper, etc.
Line floor with newspaper or use pile of soft towels/clothes

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25
Q

What should you not make a ferrets cage from

A

NO glass tanks – inadequate ventilation

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26
Q

What is an apropriate temp for a ferrets enclosure

A

Do not allow temperature to go below 20 degrees Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit

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27
Q

How often and how to bathe a ferret

A

Bathe monthly at the most with ferret specific or kitten shampoo
If bathe more often than this will actually increase sebaceous gland secretions = increased odor
To decrease odor – clean cage and change bedding often

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28
Q

Will a ferret use a litterbox

A

Will use litter box IF it is in the right place at the right time
If “busy” or playing will back into nearest corner
Elevate hind end to eliminate
LB should be triangular to fit into corners and have a high back
Use basic, unscented litter
Often will just refuse to use LB

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29
Q

How do ferrets naturally behave

A

Very curious, known troublemakers
Choose toys carefully and monitor regularly
Supervise ALL free time
FOREIGN BODIES!

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30
Q

How do you handle a ferret

A

Pick up with one hand behind shoulders
Usually relax with all 4 feet away from surface
If doing more than removing/replacing in cage should support hind end and hold close to body
Fall risk
VERY flexible and quick
Scruff – will relax, yawn reflex
Calm handling and as little restraint as possible

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31
Q

What happens if you scruff a ferret

A

Scruff – will relax, yawn reflex
Not recommended if they are very scared, injured, painful
Hold over surface

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32
Q

How do you give medication to ferrets

A

PO as often as possible
Very reactive to IM injections
Very wiggly – high chance of injury

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33
Q

Where can you collect blood from a ferret

A

Lateral saphenous
Cephalic*
Right jugular for larger amounts
Cranial vena cava – use GA to prevent movement and potential laceration

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34
Q

How do you perform a blood collection on a ferret

A

All blood collections may need GA/sedation if patient non compliant
Dorsal recumbency with 2 handlers and 1 collector
Stretch head forward and pull front legs back
Restrain hind end
25g needle and 3 ml syringe

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35
Q

What is the maintenace rate of fluid for ferrets

A

Maintenance: 75-100 ml/kg/day

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36
Q

How do you give fluids to ferrets

A

LRS or Normosol recommended for IV fluids
SQ Fluids – use extension set to allow for movement

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37
Q

How do you sedate a ferret

A

Gas/inhalant preferred
Similar to cats/dogs
Fast for no longer than 4 hours
Initially mask down or use induction chamber, then intubate

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38
Q

What ETT size and O2 flow rate do you use on ferrets

A

ET Tube: 2.0-3.5 mm
O2 flow rate: 0.8-1.0 L/min

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39
Q

What is unique to monitor for ferrets under anesthesia

A

Lose body heat quickly, need to maintain/support temperature
Use toe pinch/palpebral to measure depth

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40
Q

How do you take a radiograph for a ferret

A

Sedation often necessary
Symmetry is difficult – use positioning aides
Otherwise, similar to cats/dogs

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41
Q

How do you collect urine on a ferret

A

Cystocentesis
Catheters are difficult – require anesthesia

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42
Q

Rabbits are what familia

A

Class Mammalia; Order Lagomorpha; Family Leporidae not rodents

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43
Q

What is unique about rabbits teeth

A

2 lower incisors, 4 upper incisors (2 large front teeth and 2 small “peg teeth” behind)
Incisors and molars grow continuously throughout life

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44
Q

How do rabbits breathe

A

Primarily nasal breathers (very poor mouth breathers)
Small thoracic cavity (and therefore lungs), small heart

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45
Q

What does a rabbits digestive system look like

A

Large abdominal cavity
Very acidic stomach (pH 1.2-1.5)
Very long intestines, large cecum (hind gut fermenters)
Physically unable to vomit
Produce and ingest cecotrophs (night feces)

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46
Q

What is unique about a rabbits musculokeletal system

A

Fragile skeleton prone to fractures
Very strong musculature of hind limbs/back
Can break their own back if struggle hard during restraint

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47
Q

What does a male rabbits sex organs look like

A

Open inguinal rings, testes descend ~12 weeks (difficult to sex when young)

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48
Q

What does a female rabbits reproductive system look like

A

No uterine body; 2 cervices and 2 uterine horns
Induced ovulators

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49
Q

When does rabbits sexually mature

A

~4-7 months

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50
Q

How long is a rabbits gestation

A

29-35 days

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51
Q

How often do rabbit babies nurse and how are they born

A

Young nurse only 2-3 times/day (hares only once)
Rabbits born naked/helpless (hares precocial)

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52
Q

What are the urine properties of rabbits

A

Alkaline urine
Calcium carbonate crystals normal finding

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53
Q

What are the normal values of rabbits

A

Body Temp – 38.5C–40.0C
HR – 130–325
RR – 30-60
Urine pH ~8
Average Lifespan – 5-10 years

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54
Q

What are common disease and problems with rabbits

A

Snuffles
GI stasis
Dental malocclusion
Jaw/tooth root abscesses
Urolithiasis
Uterine Adenocarcinoma
Fur mites
Pododermatitis

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55
Q

What is snuffles for rabbits

A

Respiratory disease (Nasal/ocular discharge) caused by Pasteurella
Difficult to treat, recurrence common

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56
Q

What is GI stasis in rabbits

A

The GI motility stops or reduces
Fatal if not treated
Can see excessive gas and sometimes soft stool

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57
Q

What is dental malocclusion in rabbits

A

Teeth grow continuously, if not worn down they overgrow and can cause ulceration/laceration in the mouth and anorexia
Genetic component
Upper cheek teeth grow laterally; lower cheek teeth grow medially

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58
Q

Jaw/tooth root abscesses in rabbits is

A

Pus very thick/caseous
Extraction of affected tooth and surgical draining/debridement, antibiotics

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59
Q

What is urolithiasis in rabbits and how do you diagnose it

A

Stones/sludge common
Diet, obesity, limited exercise
dx: rads/UA; tx: surgical

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60
Q

Uterine Adenocarcinoma is how common in rabbits

A

very common (>90% if left unspayed)

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61
Q

What are the fur mites of rabbits

A

Cheyletiella (Potentially Zoonotic)

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62
Q

What is pododermatitis in rabbits

A

Painful, ulcerated dermatitis on weight bearing surface of feet
Soft bedding, enough space, weight management
Difficult to treat, can be very severe

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63
Q

How do you use antibiotics in rabbits

A

Very sensitive to many oral antibiotics
Avoid oral penicillins, cephalosporins, erythromycin, clindamycin, lincomycin
Antibiotic Associated Diarrhea (Enterotoxemia) can result from use of Oral antibiotics
From Clostridial overgrown (Clostridium dificile)
Produces a toxin
Severe, watery, often hemorrhagic diarrhea
Can be fatal
Treatment with metronidazole may help if started early

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64
Q

What are some common environmental issues for rabbits

A

Easily environmentally stressed
- Visual and olfactory stimuli
Need protection from heat/cold
- Especially heat intolerant
- 40-80 degrees Fahrenheit

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65
Q

How big should a rabbits space be

A

Space: minimum 3x the length of rabbit
3 Hop Rule
Like to stand up on hind limbs

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66
Q

What should the floor of a rabbits area be and what may it cause

A

Either NO wire bottom or at least an area without
Clean BUT causes trouble with cecotroph ingestion
Pododermatitis
- Common medical condition seen in rabbits
- AKA: Sore hocks, bumblefoot
- Ulcerative bacterial infection of the hocks

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67
Q

What should a rabbits area include

A

At LEAST one “hidey hole” or box
Sipper bottle for water
50-150 ml/kg/day
Wash and disinfect daily
Can be litter trained

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68
Q

What are rabbits likely to do in there area

A

Very territorial
May mark if left out free
Careful with pairings – known to fight

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69
Q

What should you do for rabbits when they free roam

A

Like to chew!
Bunny proof
Supervise free time
Allow free time to roam
Best/safest option is to make them an area for this
NEVER leave unsupervised with any predator species

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70
Q

What is important to remember about handling rabbits

A

Easily injured
Powerful hind legs and long, relatively inflexible spine
Force of their kick can fracture back
ALWAYS support hind limbs and securely restrain
NEVER scruff or lift/hold by ears
Hold close to body with head tucked under arm

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71
Q

How do you remove a rabbit from a cage

A

Removing from cage
One hand underneath grasping hind legs, other hand supports/holds front legs

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72
Q

How do you return a rabbit to a cage

A

Place in backwards (face towards you) to decrease danger of kicking out/bolting

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73
Q

What are some common things used to distract/reduce stress when handling rabbits

A

Use Bunny Burrito
Covering eyes often reduces stress/causes them to freeze
Do NOT tap nose as distraction

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74
Q

Why do you not tap a rabbits nose

A

Obligate nasal breathers
Causes aggression/avoidance/distress

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75
Q

How do you give medications to a rabbit

A

PO
-Can mix with fruit juice or puree
Avoid IM if possible, if have to use quadriceps

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76
Q

How do you collect urine form a rabbit and does it need sedation

A

Cystocentesis – no sedation required
Catheterization – sedation required
Sitting posture for male, sternal recumbence for female

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77
Q

How do you perform radiogprahs for rabbits

A

Sedation/GA help prevent injury/stress

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78
Q

How do you give fluid therapy to rabbits

A

IV – cephalic vein
IO – greater tubercle of humerus
For severely dehydrated patients
E-Collar may be needed – likely to chew out line/catheter

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79
Q

How do you perform GA and intubation in a rabbit

A

More challenging than other mammals
Mask down to induce
-Very sensitive to odor of inhalant anesthetics
Likely to hold breath
-Slow/calculated induction will reduce this
Difficult intubation
-Repeated attempts NOT recommended
Nasal intubation is an option

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80
Q

How much blood can you collect from a rabbit

A

Collect NO more than 1 ml/10g BW

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81
Q

What are some things to rememebr when doing blood collection on a rabbit

A

Skin easily torn – pluck, don’t shave
Veins thin walled and fragile – hematomas easily formed

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82
Q

What are soem routes of blood collection for a rabbit

A

Lateral saphenous or cephalic
Marginal ear vein and central ear artery
Jugular

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83
Q

How do you collect the blood from a rabbit and what supplies are used

A

25-27G needle
Heparinized needle
Can use NO needle and drip into tube
Sedation often a good choice to decrease stress and enable you to obtain enough sample

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84
Q

Marginal ear vein and central ear artery blood collection is not used why

A

Difficult to get
Increased hematoma risk
AVOID using (especially in pet rabbits)

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85
Q

How do you do a jugular blood draw in a rabbit

A

Stressful due to restraint
Sedation likely needed

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86
Q

What class are guinea pigs

A

Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Caviidae

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87
Q

What is unique about of rabbit teeth

A

Incisors and Molars grow continuously throughout life

88
Q

What suppliments do guinea pigs need

A

Vit C

89
Q

Where is the sebacous gland in guinea pigs

A

Sebaceous gland in dorsal tail area (no tail)

90
Q

What is unique about guinea pigs poop

A

Produce and ingest cecotrophs

91
Q

When does a guinea pigs pubic sythesis close and how long is gestation

A

Pubic symphysis closes at 6-9 months
If going to breed, best before 6 months or may have issues with dystocia
Gestation 59-72 days

92
Q

What are the normals for guinea pigs

A

Weight – males 900-1200g; females 700-900g
Temp – 37.2-39.5
HR – 240-310
Lifespan – 5-6 years

93
Q

What are common diseases and problems for guinea pigs

A

Scurvy
Antibiotic Associated Enterotoxemia
GI bloat
Cystic ovaries

94
Q

What is scurvy and why is it common in guinea pigs

A

Vitamin C deficiency
Require 15-25mg/kg/day (up to 50-100mg/kg/day if treating deficiency)
Leads to defective collagen – bleeding into joints and SQ, loose teeth
Supplement diet with human grade Vitamin C

95
Q

Antibiotic Associated Enterotoxemia is what and common in

A

antibiotic sensitivities and resultant diarrhea as in rabbits and guinea pigs

96
Q

What is GI bloat with guinea pigs

A

Usually due to change in diet
Dx: Can see gas on radiographs or palpate
Tx: pain meds, force feeding, fluids
Px: guarded

97
Q

C/s, dx, and tx of cystic ovaries in rabbits

A

Very common (>75% of females between 1.5 and 5 years)
C/S: Abdominal distension, possibly bilateral alopecia
Dx: ultrasound
Tx: US guided drainage; Surgical - OHE

98
Q

How big should guinea pigs enclosure be

A

Enclosure at least 36” long

99
Q

What should a guinea pigs house look like

A

Simple housing
No elaborate platforms
No wire floors
NEED at least one “hidey box”
Can be as simple as a cardboard box

100
Q

Why are guinea pig cages wire sided

A

Good circulation
Easy to clean
Protection from other pets
NO aquariums – ammonia and nitrogen accumulation will cause respiratory issues

101
Q

What should the substrate of a guinea pigs cage look like

A

newspaper or aspen shavings
NO cedar shavings

102
Q

What type of bottle shoudl you use for a guinea pig

A

Use food hopper and sipper bottle
- Urinate and defecate without preference
- Leads to bowl contamination
Need large amounts of water
- Dehydrate quickly so monitor water intake
- Drink with mouth full of food so change water frequently and check for blockages

103
Q

How to handle a guinea pig

A

Easy to handle and enjoy interactions/handling
- Do not commonly bite but can be very vocal
Fully support them when lifting/holding or they will struggle
- One hand under thorax and one cupped under bum
- Hold close to body

104
Q

Can you scruff a guinea pig

A

NEVER scruff
Scary and painful

105
Q

What hsould you do for surfaces when handling guinea pigs

A

Have very poor eyesight and depth perception – CAREFUL on surfaces
Use towels to wrap and to make surfaces have more grip

106
Q

What are some issues with collecting blood from a rabbit

A

Small, fragile blood vessels – easily collapsed
Small volumes: lateral saphenous and cephalic
Larger volumes: jugular and cranial vena cava
Sedation required
Use insulin or tuberculin syringe

107
Q

How do you administer fluid therapy to guinea pigs

A

IV catheters are very difficult
Use IO into greater trochanter of femur
SQ fluids are more painful than in other species due to fat pad between scapulae and little SQ space – will vocalize

108
Q

What is the fluid rate for a guinea pg

A

50 – 100 ml /kg BW/day

109
Q

What should you do when administering fludis to a guinea pig

A

Monitor for overhydration
Most commonly use isotonic fluids

110
Q

How do you intubate and how long does sedation last in guinea pigs

A

Difficult to intubate
- Small and long/narrow oral cavity
- Mask down
Only fast for 2 – 4 hours
Once in proper GA plane need to swab out oral cavity

111
Q

What can stress cause to guinea pigs and what shoudl you do

A

Stress can cause catastrophic results = death
Decrease induction time and handling

112
Q

What do you do for guinea pig radiographs

A

Use sedation and positioning aids

113
Q

What class is chinchilias

A

Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Chinchillidae

114
Q

What is different about chinchillas anatomy

A

Incisors and molars grow continuously throughout life
Very dense haircoat; may ‘fur slip’ if frightened
Produce and ingest cecotrophs

115
Q

What does female chinchillas reproductive system look like

A

Females – 2 cervices and 2 uterine horns

116
Q

What does male chinchillas reproductive system look like

A

Males have no true scrotum, just outpocketing of abdomen

117
Q

What is the same between both reproductive organs of chinchillas

A

Both sexes have 3 pairs of mammary glands and both sexes have a large urinary papillae (can be confused for a penis) which can make sex determination difficult

118
Q

What are the normal values for a chinchilla

A

Weight – males 400-500g; females 400-600g
Temperature – 37-38C
HR 100-150bpm
Lifespan - ~10 years

119
Q

What are some common disease and probelms with chinchillas

A

Malocclusion, jaw abscesses and GI problems same as for rabbits
Heat stroke
- Adapted to cool environment and can’t dissipate heat well
Trauma common as very flighty/active and bones are long with thin/brittle cortex
- Fractured tibia most common

120
Q

What is the common behaviour of chinchillas

A

Very curious, quick, agile and can jump very well

121
Q

What should the cage for a chinchilla look like and include

A

Need large cage – very active
Solid floor
Hidey box
Different levels with platforms for jumping
NO connective ladders between levels
Cause entanglement and injury
NO exercise balls
Cause stress and overheating, do not enable them to jump
CANNOT swim – be careful with toilets
Supervise all free time in an enclosed and safe area
Bathrooms work well as easy to enclose/proof and have many levels

122
Q

What degree should a chinchilla cage be lkept at

A

Keep cage in cool/dry area with NO direct sunlight
65 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit

123
Q

Where should you put a chinchillas cage

A

Put at least one side of the cage against a wall
Less exposure, feeling of safety

124
Q

Why would you give a chinchilla a dust bath

A

NEED dust baths
Use a shallow bowl or pan they can run in/out of and roll in
Offer 2-3 times per week
Buy dust at pet store

125
Q

What substrate should you use for chinchillas

A

Aspen shavings or newspaper

126
Q

What should you use for a chinchillas water and food bowl

A

Use pottery dishes for food
- Easy to clean and they cannot chew them
Use a water bottle
- Clean and change daily

127
Q

Why should you handle a chinchilla gently

A

Handle very gently!
FUR SLIP

128
Q

How should you handle a chinchilla

A

Support body with one hand around thorax and other hand supporting rump with one finger wrapped around their tail
Can be lifted by tail if needed
May work better for frightened or less socialized patients
Will not cause fur slip
Use a towel on a table for better grip

129
Q

How should NOT you handle a chinchilla

A

NEVER lift by ears
NEVER scruff
NEVER make a sudden grab

130
Q

How do you give medication to a chinchilla

A

PO preferred over injections
If injection needed, use quadriceps
Wet fur with warm water at injection site to help avoid fur slip

131
Q

How do you collect blood form a chinchilla

A

Veins difficult to access
Use lateral saphenous with 25G needle and tuberculin syringe
Collect maximum 0.5 ml/100 g BW
Can use jugular, femoral vein or cranial vena cava for larger volumes
All require sedation

132
Q

How do you give fluid therapy to a chinchilla

A

IV catheters are difficult to place
SQ Fluids: 3 – 4 ml
IO Fluids: into femur, requires sedation
IP Cavity: careful to avoid ascites

133
Q

How do you sedate a chinchilla

A

Mask down
Do not use premedication
- Causes muscle necrosis

134
Q

How long shoudl you fast a chinchilla

A

2-4 hours

135
Q

What should you do to a chinchilla prior to GA

A

Clean cheeks prior to GA
Difficult to intubate

136
Q

How should you heat a chinchialla and when

A

Prone to hypothermia – provide heat source during GA and recovery

137
Q

What hsould you do when a chinchilla is recovering from GA

A

Wrap in towel during recovery
Prevents them bolting before fully recovered

138
Q

How do you collect urine from a chinchilla

A

Cystocentesis, free catch or floor collection

139
Q

What should you do for radiographs of a chinchilla

A

Use sedation and positioning aides

140
Q

What class is hamsters

A

Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Cricetidae

141
Q

What is unique about a hamsters anatomy and physiology

A

Several different breeds
Nocturnal
Incisors and molars grow continuously throughout life
May hibernate at Temperatures less than 5C (sometimes even at 10-15C)
Distensible cheek pouches
can become impacted, develop tumours
Lifespan – 1.5-2 years

142
Q

WHat is different about a male hamster

A

Hip/flank glands prominent in adult males (pigmented)
Can become infected, impacted, neoplastic

143
Q

What does a female hamster do after ovulation

A

Females produce copious discharge after ovulation

144
Q

What are common disease/probelms with hamsters

A

Antibiotic Associated Enterotoxemia
Wet tail

145
Q

What is Antibiotic Associated Enterotoxemia in hamsters

A

Overgrowth of Clostridium difficile
Same sensitivities to antibiotics as rabbits and guinea pigs
Usually seen in adult hamsters

146
Q

What is wet tail and when does it happen to hamsters

A

Young hamsters
Proliferative enteropathy caused by Lawsonia intracellularis
Treat aggressively with fluids, antibiotics, and force feeding

147
Q

What class is gerbils

A

Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Muridae

148
Q

What is different about a gerbils anatomy/physioilogy

A

Adapted for a desert environment; require very little water
Incisors grow continuously throughout life, molars do not
May slough tail if handled by tail (Tail Slip)
Both sexes have an orange/tan area of alopecia on ventral abdomen and a ventral marking gland
- Can become infected, neoplastic in older gerbils
Lifespan – 3-4 years

149
Q

What are common diseases/problems with gerbils

A

Tail slip
Sore nose
Tumors
Head tilt

150
Q

What is tail slip with gerbils

A

If picked up by tail tip, skin will slough
Requires amputation because bone is exposed

151
Q

What is sore nose caused by in gerbils

A

Moist dermatitis
Likely due to an increase in porphyrin secretions (dt stress) which acts as an irritant – then secondary infections occur

152
Q

What are the common tumors of gerbils

A

Common
Males – squamous cell carcinoma of ventral marking gland
Females – ovarian granulosa cell tumours

153
Q

What causes head tilt in gerbils

A

Aural cholesteatoma (looks like a polyp)

154
Q

What should the husbandry of hamsters look like

A

Nocturnal
Fastidious in maintaining/arranging habitat
- Make special areas for sleeping, food storage and waste
- Can place a litter box after they have designated a waste area
- When cleaning cage, put things back as they were – NEVER rearrange
Live alone – can be very aggressive in pairs/groups
>80 degrees Fahrenheit they will estivate

155
Q

How does a gerbil act

A

Not nocturnal
More social, need/enjoy companions
Monogamous, do not separate once bonded
Very playful and active
Enjoy small toys, tubes, hide boxes, several entrances to hidey boxes

156
Q

What should a gerbil/hamsters house look like

A

Solid floors and sides with secure lids
Gerbils are great jumpers
Both with climb
Hamsters enjoy elaborate homes with tubes, towers, etc
Provide hidey boxes
- Hamsters will only use if they are in their sleeping area
Clean cages weekly
Substrate: aspen shavings or recycled paper products
- Gerbils could use a fine sand
Water bottles that are cleaned and changed daily
- Gerbils drink less water than hamsters
Rodent wheels
- Solid surface
- Exercise balls – ALWAYS supervise

157
Q

What should you do before handling a hamster

A

Easily startled
Aggressive when startled or when first awake
Gently prod from sleeping area to help them wake
Wait to pick up until fully awake

158
Q

How do you handle a hamster

A

Scoop into hand
Do not tolerate much handling/restraint before trying to bite
Can scruff
- Empty cheek pouches first
- Include extra cheek skin in scruff
Extended periods of scruffing can cause exophthalmosis due to pressure behind eyes

159
Q

How do you handle a gerbil

A

NEVER catch or restrain by tail
Very fast – often easier to catch by scooping into cup first
Can scruff – cheek skin not a problem like hamsters
Less likely to bite

160
Q

How do you collect blood from a gerbil

A

lateral tail vein (with CAUTION)
- Mask down first
- Warm tail with warm water or cloth to dilate vessels
Cranial vena cava – Risky, need full GA

161
Q

Where do you perform injections in a gerbil/hamster

A

SQ or IP

162
Q

What are the issues with fluid therapy in hamsters and gerbils

A

Difficult
Hard to access veins
Cannot give large volumes

163
Q

What are the issues with giving meds to gerbils/hamsters

A

Most medications are “extra label”
Hard to hide meds – “cautious eaters”

164
Q

How do you induce a hamster/gerbil

A

Mask for induction and maintenance
Can convert syringe case

165
Q

How do you take radiopgraphs of hamsters/gerbils

A

Use GA and tape/positioning aides

166
Q

What class and family are mice/rates

A

Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Muridae

167
Q

What is unique about rats anatmony/physiology

A

Incisors grow continuously, molars do not
Harderian glands behind eyes secrete porphyrins (tears look red)
Lifespan – 2-3 years (can live up to 5, but very unusual)

168
Q

What is unique about mice anatmony/physiology

A

Incisors grow continuously, molars do not
Lifespan – 1-2 years

169
Q

What are common disease/problems with rats

A

Chronic resp disease
Mammary tumors
Lice/fur mites
Red discharge from eyes/nose

170
Q

What is chronic resp disease in rats and how to treat

A

Very common
Usually caused by Mycoplasma pulmonis (may also involve streptococcus and Corynebacterium)
Treat with antibiotics
- May kill organism, but the body’s response to mycoplasma causes respiratory damage
- Antibiotics may decrease clinical signs, but will not cure disease

171
Q

Mammary tumors with rats

A

Usually benign (fibroadenoma)
Grow VERY quickly
Occurs in both sexes (mammary tissue present from neck to inguinal area
Surgical removal usually curative and straightforward

172
Q

What are the signs and diagnostics for lice/fur mites in rats

A

Common
Scratching and fur loss
Skin scrape/scotch tape to diagnose

173
Q

Red discharge from eyes/nose is caused by hwat in rats

A

Owners usually report bleeding from eyes/nose
Porphyrin secretion increases with stress/underlying disease

174
Q

What are the common diseases/problems with mice

A

Mites
Mammary tumors

175
Q

What does mites look like in mice

A

Alopecia
Pruritic with self trauma common (can scratch ears right off)
May also be an underlying skin condition and not mites??

176
Q

What does mammary tumors look like and prognoisis of mice

A

Almost always malignant (adenocarcinoma) and metastatic
Prognosis poor

177
Q

What are rats behaviour

A

Easily socialized, good with others, rarely bite, make better pets
Curious, intelligent
Bruxism and boggling = signs of contentment

178
Q

What is the bahviour of mice

A

More active and nervous, quicker to bite
Do not allow much handling/interaction
Aggression with others

179
Q

What is super important about mice/rats husbandry

A

Good ventilation VERY important
Ammonia fumes

180
Q

What should a mice/rats husbandry look like

A

Solid floors
Be careful with wire sides for mice
Can use aquarium with fitted lid
Substrate: recycled paper or aspen shavings
Provide hidey boxes, wheels, tubes (PVC pipe, cardboard rolls)
Cardboard is good as they can play in/with and chew on
Check and change water twice daily
Provide appropriate wood blocks for gnawing

181
Q

What important about a rats water bottle

A

Rodents may cannibalize if run out of water
Often chew the bottles, check for leaks often

182
Q

How do you pick up a rat

A

Pick up with one hand then support with one hand around shoulders and one underneath
NEVER pick up or hold by the tail
- This may cause them to bite
For a potentially painful procedure hold in the same manner with thumb under mandible and stretching them out slightly

183
Q

How should you pick up a mouse

A

Will bite
Can pick up by base of tail and be placed onto a rough surface
Only use tail for a quick transfer – they will bite their own tail to escape
When sat down they will try to run – can scruff at this time
Wrap tail around little finger to control
Do not just wear thick gloves and “squish”
Chance of injury, suffocation, dropping

184
Q

How much blood shoudl you collect from a mouse/rat

A

Maximum 10% total blood volume can be taken
Average 70 ml/KG BW – convert to g and be careful, calculate ahead of time

185
Q

Where shoudl you collect blood from a rat/mice

A

Use warmed lateral tail vein
Other vessels are small and difficult

186
Q

What supplies do you need to collect a rat/mouse blood

A

Use 23G needle with tuberculin syringe or heparin microhematocrit tube directly from needle
Can use syringe case with breathing holes in the end to help with restraint
60 cc for rats, 3 cc for mice

187
Q

Where can you give injections in mice/rats

A

SQ or IP

188
Q

What is the max fluid you cna give a rat/mice

A

Fluid Therapy: 5 ml max fluids at one time

189
Q

What is unique about a rat/mice under GA

A

Mask down, can use a syringe case or place them completely inside a K9 mask
Hypothermia is a concern, provide heat source during procedure

190
Q

How do you take radiographs with mice/rats

A

Need GA
May be able to use dental x-ray unit
Use tape and positioning aides

191
Q

What is the order and family of a hedgehog

A

Class Mammalia; Order Eulipotyphla; Family Erinaceinae

192
Q

Anatomy and physiology of hedghogs

A

Nocturnal
Omnivores (mostly insectivores)
Males – no scrotal sac; testes are housed in a perianal recess surrounded in fat
Very sensitive smell and hearing
Poor vision
Thick fibrous dermal layer under spiny skin
- Lots of fat, few blood vessels – slow absorption of SQ injections
Self-Anointing (Anting) – frothy saliva rubbed over spines
- Often in response to strong odors

193
Q

What are the normal values of hedgehogs

A

Weight – Male 400-600g; Female 300-600g
Temperature – 36-37.4C
HR - 180-280bmp
RR - 25-50/min
Lifespan – 4-6 years

194
Q

What are common disease/probelms with hedgehogs

A

Mites
Trauma to feet/legs
Wobbly hedgehog syndrome
Tumors

195
Q

What tumors are common in hedgehogs

A

Common (~30%)
Many systems affected
Oral squamous cell carcinomas, mammary tumours, uterine tumours, mast cell tumours, etc

196
Q

Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome is

A

Progressive paresis/paralysis, starts with hind end
Thought to be genetic
Axonal and spinal cord degeneration
No treatment

197
Q

How common are mites in hedgehogs

A

Common in young animals
In older animals with new appearance of mites, look for underlying disease causing immunosuppression

198
Q

What trauma to a hedgehogs feet/legs are common

A

Often get strings/hair/dental floss, etc wrapped around feet or legs
Anesthetise to remove; if very severe may require amputation

199
Q

What are the behaviour patern of hedgehogs

A

Nocturnal – hide during the day, very active at night
Solitary

200
Q

What is popcorning

A

“Popcorning” - Curl into a tight ball and hiss when upset

201
Q

What is anointing

A

if introduced to item with new smell/taste they will lick it and hypersalivate
White, frothy spit if formed and they will use it to “paint” or “anoint” their spines
Uncertain why they perform this behaviour

202
Q

What is important when handling a hedgehog

A

If handled from a young age they will become accepting of it
Not a social animal
High fall risk – poor eyesight and depth perception
Undemanding and easy to care for

203
Q

What should a hedgehogs house look like

A

Not known for chewing things
Housing needs solid flooring and sides
Good climbers and will scale wire cages
Not good at getting down, will fall = injuries
Provide a large floor space
If space is too small will cause behaviour issues – weaving, compulsive pacing, endless perimeter laps
Provide exercise wheel
Ensure solid
Provides mental and physical health benefits and helps with weight control
Substrate: aspen shavings or recycled pap

204
Q

Should you provide a place for a hedgehog to hide

A

Provide multiple, different hidey boxes
PVC pipes, cardboard boxes, shredded paper/cloth

205
Q

Where should you place a hedgehogs cage

A

Keep enclosure away from direct sunlight, AC units and heating vents
If get too hot will estivate

206
Q

How shoudl a hedgehog get watter

A

In a water bottle

207
Q

Do hedgehogs hibernate

A

Do not hibernate – do become less active in cooler temperatures
If left in too cold temperature for too long they will die
May need heat source

208
Q

How do you handle a hedgehog

A

Will stay curled up until there is no more perception of danger or annoyance
Wear leather gloves or use folded towel to protect hands
Use food to encourage unrolling
Stroking spines caudally can help them relax
Curl tighter with noise so keeping area quiet is important
PATIENCE! NEVER force them open
When they do unroll can sometimes scruff or insert fingers at their shoulders and wrap them underneath behind forelegs to prevent rolling
Can try placing in a sink with a slow trickle of water to encourage unrolling
NEVER leave unattended as they could drown if reluctant to unroll

209
Q

How do you anesthtiize a hedgehog

A

Mask or chamber
Can use ET tube of 2 mm or less OR 14G catheter (without the stylet)
Hypothermia risk, provide heat

210
Q

How do you give a SQ injection in a hedgehog

A

give on right side below spine layer (avoid accidental penetration of spleen or kidney – lower on right side)
Spine layer has slow absorption – thick fat with little blood supply

211
Q

Where do you give an IM injection in a hedgehog

A

use quadriceps

212
Q

How do you give oral medication to a hedgehog

A

mix with favourite food, inject into prey item, mix with juice
Careful with flavours to avoid anointing

213
Q

Where do you take blood from a hedgehog

A

Jugular vein: hard to visualize but anatomically similar to other small mammals
Vena cava: requires sedation
Heart is more cranial than in other species
Peripherals are difficult due to short legs

214
Q

What do you use to collect a hedgehogs blood

A

Use 25G needle with tuberculin syringe to prevent laceration or collapse
Pre-heparinize the syringe to prevent clotting

215
Q

How do you radiogrpah a hedgehog

A

Use GA and positioning aides

216
Q
A

Exotics (3 decks)

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