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
What should you not make a ferrets cage from
NO glass tanks – inadequate ventilation
26
What is an apropriate temp for a ferrets enclosure
Do not allow temperature to go below 20 degrees Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit
27
How often and how to bathe a ferret
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
28
Will a ferret use a litterbox
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
29
How do ferrets naturally behave
Very curious, known troublemakers Choose toys carefully and monitor regularly Supervise ALL free time FOREIGN BODIES!
30
How do you handle a ferret
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
31
What happens if you scruff a ferret
Scruff – will relax, yawn reflex Not recommended if they are very scared, injured, painful Hold over surface
32
How do you give medication to ferrets
PO as often as possible Very reactive to IM injections Very wiggly – high chance of injury
33
Where can you collect blood from a ferret
Lateral saphenous Cephalic* Right jugular for larger amounts Cranial vena cava – use GA to prevent movement and potential laceration
34
How do you perform a blood collection on a ferret
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
35
What is the maintenace rate of fluid for ferrets
Maintenance: 75-100 ml/kg/day
36
How do you give fluids to ferrets
LRS or Normosol recommended for IV fluids SQ Fluids – use extension set to allow for movement
37
How do you sedate a ferret
Gas/inhalant preferred Similar to cats/dogs Fast for no longer than 4 hours Initially mask down or use induction chamber, then intubate
38
What ETT size and O2 flow rate do you use on ferrets
ET Tube: 2.0-3.5 mm O2 flow rate: 0.8-1.0 L/min
39
What is unique to monitor for ferrets under anesthesia
Lose body heat quickly, need to maintain/support temperature Use toe pinch/palpebral to measure depth
40
How do you take a radiograph for a ferret
Sedation often necessary Symmetry is difficult – use positioning aides Otherwise, similar to cats/dogs
41
How do you collect urine on a ferret
Cystocentesis Catheters are difficult – require anesthesia
42
Rabbits are what familia
Class Mammalia; Order Lagomorpha; Family Leporidae not rodents
43
What is unique about rabbits teeth
2 lower incisors, 4 upper incisors (2 large front teeth and 2 small “peg teeth” behind) Incisors and molars grow continuously throughout life
44
How do rabbits breathe
Primarily nasal breathers (very poor mouth breathers) Small thoracic cavity (and therefore lungs), small heart
45
What does a rabbits digestive system look like
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)
46
What is unique about a rabbits musculokeletal system
Fragile skeleton prone to fractures Very strong musculature of hind limbs/back Can break their own back if struggle hard during restraint
47
What does a male rabbits sex organs look like
Open inguinal rings, testes descend ~12 weeks (difficult to sex when young)
48
What does a female rabbits reproductive system look like
No uterine body; 2 cervices and 2 uterine horns Induced ovulators
49
When does rabbits sexually mature
~4-7 months
50
How long is a rabbits gestation
29-35 days
51
How often do rabbit babies nurse and how are they born
Young nurse only 2-3 times/day (hares only once) Rabbits born naked/helpless (hares precocial)
52
What are the urine properties of rabbits
Alkaline urine Calcium carbonate crystals normal finding
53
What are the normal values of rabbits
Body Temp – 38.5C–40.0C HR – 130–325 RR – 30-60 Urine pH ~8 Average Lifespan – 5-10 years
54
What are common disease and problems with rabbits
Snuffles GI stasis Dental malocclusion Jaw/tooth root abscesses Urolithiasis Uterine Adenocarcinoma Fur mites Pododermatitis
55
What is snuffles for rabbits
Respiratory disease (Nasal/ocular discharge) caused by Pasteurella Difficult to treat, recurrence common
56
What is GI stasis in rabbits
The GI motility stops or reduces Fatal if not treated Can see excessive gas and sometimes soft stool
57
What is dental malocclusion in rabbits
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
58
Jaw/tooth root abscesses in rabbits is
Pus very thick/caseous Extraction of affected tooth and surgical draining/debridement, antibiotics
59
What is urolithiasis in rabbits and how do you diagnose it
Stones/sludge common Diet, obesity, limited exercise dx: rads/UA; tx: surgical
60
Uterine Adenocarcinoma is how common in rabbits
very common (>90% if left unspayed)
61
What are the fur mites of rabbits
Cheyletiella (Potentially Zoonotic)
62
What is pododermatitis in rabbits
Painful, ulcerated dermatitis on weight bearing surface of feet Soft bedding, enough space, weight management Difficult to treat, can be very severe
63
How do you use antibiotics in rabbits
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
64
What are some common environmental issues for rabbits
Easily environmentally stressed - Visual and olfactory stimuli Need protection from heat/cold - Especially heat intolerant - 40-80 degrees Fahrenheit
65
How big should a rabbits space be
Space: minimum 3x the length of rabbit 3 Hop Rule Like to stand up on hind limbs
66
What should the floor of a rabbits area be and what may it cause
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
67
What should a rabbits area include
At LEAST one “hidey hole” or box Sipper bottle for water 50-150 ml/kg/day Wash and disinfect daily Can be litter trained
68
What are rabbits likely to do in there area
Very territorial May mark if left out free Careful with pairings – known to fight
69
What should you do for rabbits when they free roam
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
70
What is important to remember about handling rabbits
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
71
How do you remove a rabbit from a cage
Removing from cage One hand underneath grasping hind legs, other hand supports/holds front legs
72
How do you return a rabbit to a cage
Place in backwards (face towards you) to decrease danger of kicking out/bolting
73
What are some common things used to distract/reduce stress when handling rabbits
Use Bunny Burrito Covering eyes often reduces stress/causes them to freeze Do NOT tap nose as distraction
74
Why do you not tap a rabbits nose
Obligate nasal breathers Causes aggression/avoidance/distress
75
How do you give medications to a rabbit
PO -Can mix with fruit juice or puree Avoid IM if possible, if have to use quadriceps
76
How do you collect urine form a rabbit and does it need sedation
Cystocentesis – no sedation required Catheterization – sedation required Sitting posture for male, sternal recumbence for female
77
How do you perform radiogprahs for rabbits
Sedation/GA help prevent injury/stress
78
How do you give fluid therapy to rabbits
IV – cephalic vein IO – greater tubercle of humerus For severely dehydrated patients E-Collar may be needed – likely to chew out line/catheter
79
How do you perform GA and intubation in a rabbit
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
80
How much blood can you collect from a rabbit
Collect NO more than 1 ml/10g BW
81
What are some things to rememebr when doing blood collection on a rabbit
Skin easily torn – pluck, don’t shave Veins thin walled and fragile – hematomas easily formed
82
What are soem routes of blood collection for a rabbit
Lateral saphenous or cephalic Marginal ear vein and central ear artery Jugular
83
How do you collect the blood from a rabbit and what supplies are used
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
84
Marginal ear vein and central ear artery blood collection is not used why
Difficult to get Increased hematoma risk AVOID using (especially in pet rabbits)
85
How do you do a jugular blood draw in a rabbit
Stressful due to restraint Sedation likely needed
86
What class are guinea pigs
Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Caviidae
87
What is unique about of rabbit teeth
Incisors and Molars grow continuously throughout life
88
What suppliments do guinea pigs need
Vit C
89
Where is the sebacous gland in guinea pigs
Sebaceous gland in dorsal tail area (no tail)
90
What is unique about guinea pigs poop
Produce and ingest cecotrophs
91
When does a guinea pigs pubic sythesis close and how long is gestation
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
What are the normals for guinea pigs
Weight – males 900-1200g; females 700-900g Temp – 37.2-39.5 HR – 240-310 Lifespan – 5-6 years
93
What are common diseases and problems for guinea pigs
Scurvy Antibiotic Associated Enterotoxemia GI bloat Cystic ovaries
94
What is scurvy and why is it common in guinea pigs
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
Antibiotic Associated Enterotoxemia is what and common in
antibiotic sensitivities and resultant diarrhea as in rabbits and guinea pigs
96
What is GI bloat with guinea pigs
Usually due to change in diet Dx: Can see gas on radiographs or palpate Tx: pain meds, force feeding, fluids Px: guarded
97
C/s, dx, and tx of cystic ovaries in rabbits
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
How big should guinea pigs enclosure be
Enclosure at least 36” long
99
What should a guinea pigs house look like
Simple housing No elaborate platforms No wire floors NEED at least one “hidey box” Can be as simple as a cardboard box
100
Why are guinea pig cages wire sided
Good circulation Easy to clean Protection from other pets NO aquariums – ammonia and nitrogen accumulation will cause respiratory issues
101
What should the substrate of a guinea pigs cage look like
newspaper or aspen shavings NO cedar shavings
102
What type of bottle shoudl you use for a guinea pig
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
How to handle a guinea pig
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
Can you scruff a guinea pig
NEVER scruff Scary and painful
105
What hsould you do for surfaces when handling guinea pigs
Have very poor eyesight and depth perception – CAREFUL on surfaces Use towels to wrap and to make surfaces have more grip
106
What are some issues with collecting blood from a rabbit
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
How do you administer fluid therapy to guinea pigs
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
What is the fluid rate for a guinea pg
50 – 100 ml /kg BW/day
109
What should you do when administering fludis to a guinea pig
Monitor for overhydration Most commonly use isotonic fluids
110
How do you intubate and how long does sedation last in guinea pigs
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
What can stress cause to guinea pigs and what shoudl you do
Stress can cause catastrophic results = death Decrease induction time and handling
112
What do you do for guinea pig radiographs
Use sedation and positioning aids
113
What class is chinchilias
Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Chinchillidae
114
What is different about chinchillas anatomy
Incisors and molars grow continuously throughout life Very dense haircoat; may ‘fur slip’ if frightened Produce and ingest cecotrophs
115
What does female chinchillas reproductive system look like
Females – 2 cervices and 2 uterine horns
116
What does male chinchillas reproductive system look like
Males have no true scrotum, just outpocketing of abdomen
117
What is the same between both reproductive organs of chinchillas
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
What are the normal values for a chinchilla
Weight – males 400-500g; females 400-600g Temperature – 37-38C HR 100-150bpm Lifespan - ~10 years
119
What are some common disease and probelms with chinchillas
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
What is the common behaviour of chinchillas
Very curious, quick, agile and can jump very well
121
What should the cage for a chinchilla look like and include
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
What degree should a chinchilla cage be lkept at
Keep cage in cool/dry area with NO direct sunlight 65 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit
123
Where should you put a chinchillas cage
Put at least one side of the cage against a wall Less exposure, feeling of safety
124
Why would you give a chinchilla a dust bath
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
What substrate should you use for chinchillas
Aspen shavings or newspaper
126
What should you use for a chinchillas water and food bowl
Use pottery dishes for food - Easy to clean and they cannot chew them Use a water bottle - Clean and change daily
127
Why should you handle a chinchilla gently
Handle very gently! FUR SLIP
128
How should you handle a chinchilla
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
How should NOT you handle a chinchilla
NEVER lift by ears NEVER scruff NEVER make a sudden grab
130
How do you give medication to a chinchilla
PO preferred over injections If injection needed, use quadriceps Wet fur with warm water at injection site to help avoid fur slip
131
How do you collect blood form a chinchilla
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
How do you give fluid therapy to a chinchilla
IV catheters are difficult to place SQ Fluids: 3 – 4 ml IO Fluids: into femur, requires sedation IP Cavity: careful to avoid ascites
133
How do you sedate a chinchilla
Mask down Do not use premedication - Causes muscle necrosis
134
How long shoudl you fast a chinchilla
2-4 hours
135
What should you do to a chinchilla prior to GA
Clean cheeks prior to GA Difficult to intubate
136
How should you heat a chinchialla and when
Prone to hypothermia – provide heat source during GA and recovery
137
What hsould you do when a chinchilla is recovering from GA
Wrap in towel during recovery Prevents them bolting before fully recovered
138
How do you collect urine from a chinchilla
Cystocentesis, free catch or floor collection
139
What should you do for radiographs of a chinchilla
Use sedation and positioning aides
140
What class is hamsters
Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Cricetidae
141
What is unique about a hamsters anatomy and physiology
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
WHat is different about a male hamster
Hip/flank glands prominent in adult males (pigmented) Can become infected, impacted, neoplastic
143
What does a female hamster do after ovulation
Females produce copious discharge after ovulation
144
What are common disease/probelms with hamsters
Antibiotic Associated Enterotoxemia Wet tail
145
What is Antibiotic Associated Enterotoxemia in hamsters
Overgrowth of Clostridium difficile Same sensitivities to antibiotics as rabbits and guinea pigs Usually seen in adult hamsters
146
What is wet tail and when does it happen to hamsters
Young hamsters Proliferative enteropathy caused by Lawsonia intracellularis Treat aggressively with fluids, antibiotics, and force feeding
147
What class is gerbils
Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Muridae
148
What is different about a gerbils anatomy/physioilogy
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
What are common diseases/problems with gerbils
Tail slip Sore nose Tumors Head tilt
150
What is tail slip with gerbils
If picked up by tail tip, skin will slough Requires amputation because bone is exposed
151
What is sore nose caused by in gerbils
Moist dermatitis Likely due to an increase in porphyrin secretions (dt stress) which acts as an irritant – then secondary infections occur
152
What are the common tumors of gerbils
Common Males – squamous cell carcinoma of ventral marking gland Females – ovarian granulosa cell tumours
153
What causes head tilt in gerbils
Aural cholesteatoma (looks like a polyp)
154
What should the husbandry of hamsters look like
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
How does a gerbil act
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
What should a gerbil/hamsters house look like
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
What should you do before handling a hamster
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
How do you handle a hamster
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
How do you handle a gerbil
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
How do you collect blood from a gerbil
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
Where do you perform injections in a gerbil/hamster
SQ or IP
162
What are the issues with fluid therapy in hamsters and gerbils
Difficult Hard to access veins Cannot give large volumes
163
What are the issues with giving meds to gerbils/hamsters
Most medications are “extra label” Hard to hide meds – “cautious eaters”
164
How do you induce a hamster/gerbil
Mask for induction and maintenance Can convert syringe case
165
How do you take radiopgraphs of hamsters/gerbils
Use GA and tape/positioning aides
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What class and family are mice/rates
Class Mammalia; Order Rodentia; Family Muridae
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What is unique about rats anatmony/physiology
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)
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What is unique about mice anatmony/physiology
Incisors grow continuously, molars do not Lifespan – 1-2 years
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What are common disease/problems with rats
Chronic resp disease Mammary tumors Lice/fur mites Red discharge from eyes/nose
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What is chronic resp disease in rats and how to treat
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
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Mammary tumors with rats
Usually benign (fibroadenoma) Grow VERY quickly Occurs in both sexes (mammary tissue present from neck to inguinal area Surgical removal usually curative and straightforward
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What are the signs and diagnostics for lice/fur mites in rats
Common Scratching and fur loss Skin scrape/scotch tape to diagnose
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Red discharge from eyes/nose is caused by hwat in rats
Owners usually report bleeding from eyes/nose Porphyrin secretion increases with stress/underlying disease
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What are the common diseases/problems with mice
Mites Mammary tumors
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What does mites look like in mice
Alopecia Pruritic with self trauma common (can scratch ears right off) May also be an underlying skin condition and not mites??
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What does mammary tumors look like and prognoisis of mice
Almost always malignant (adenocarcinoma) and metastatic Prognosis poor
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What are rats behaviour
Easily socialized, good with others, rarely bite, make better pets Curious, intelligent Bruxism and boggling = signs of contentment
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What is the bahviour of mice
More active and nervous, quicker to bite Do not allow much handling/interaction Aggression with others
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What is super important about mice/rats husbandry
Good ventilation VERY important Ammonia fumes
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What should a mice/rats husbandry look like
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
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What important about a rats water bottle
Rodents may cannibalize if run out of water Often chew the bottles, check for leaks often
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How do you pick up a rat
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
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How should you pick up a mouse
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
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How much blood shoudl you collect from a mouse/rat
Maximum 10% total blood volume can be taken Average 70 ml/KG BW – convert to g and be careful, calculate ahead of time
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Where shoudl you collect blood from a rat/mice
Use warmed lateral tail vein Other vessels are small and difficult
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What supplies do you need to collect a rat/mouse blood
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
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Where can you give injections in mice/rats
SQ or IP
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What is the max fluid you cna give a rat/mice
Fluid Therapy: 5 ml max fluids at one time
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What is unique about a rat/mice under GA
Mask down, can use a syringe case or place them completely inside a K9 mask Hypothermia is a concern, provide heat source during procedure
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How do you take radiographs with mice/rats
Need GA May be able to use dental x-ray unit Use tape and positioning aides
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What is the order and family of a hedgehog
Class Mammalia; Order Eulipotyphla; Family Erinaceinae
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Anatomy and physiology of hedghogs
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
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What are the normal values of hedgehogs
Weight – Male 400-600g; Female 300-600g Temperature – 36-37.4C HR - 180-280bmp RR - 25-50/min Lifespan – 4-6 years
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What are common disease/probelms with hedgehogs
Mites Trauma to feet/legs Wobbly hedgehog syndrome Tumors
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What tumors are common in hedgehogs
Common (~30%) Many systems affected Oral squamous cell carcinomas, mammary tumours, uterine tumours, mast cell tumours, etc
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Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome is
Progressive paresis/paralysis, starts with hind end Thought to be genetic Axonal and spinal cord degeneration No treatment
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How common are mites in hedgehogs
Common in young animals In older animals with new appearance of mites, look for underlying disease causing immunosuppression
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What trauma to a hedgehogs feet/legs are common
Often get strings/hair/dental floss, etc wrapped around feet or legs Anesthetise to remove; if very severe may require amputation
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What are the behaviour patern of hedgehogs
Nocturnal – hide during the day, very active at night Solitary
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What is popcorning
“Popcorning” - Curl into a tight ball and hiss when upset
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What is anointing
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
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What is important when handling a hedgehog
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
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What should a hedgehogs house look like
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
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Should you provide a place for a hedgehog to hide
Provide multiple, different hidey boxes PVC pipes, cardboard boxes, shredded paper/cloth
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Where should you place a hedgehogs cage
Keep enclosure away from direct sunlight, AC units and heating vents If get too hot will estivate
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How shoudl a hedgehog get watter
In a water bottle
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Do hedgehogs hibernate
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
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How do you handle a hedgehog
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
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How do you anesthtiize a hedgehog
Mask or chamber Can use ET tube of 2 mm or less OR 14G catheter (without the stylet) Hypothermia risk, provide heat
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How do you give a SQ injection in a hedgehog
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
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Where do you give an IM injection in a hedgehog
use quadriceps
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How do you give oral medication to a hedgehog
mix with favourite food, inject into prey item, mix with juice Careful with flavours to avoid anointing
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Where do you take blood from a hedgehog
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
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What do you use to collect a hedgehogs blood
Use 25G needle with tuberculin syringe to prevent laceration or collapse Pre-heparinize the syringe to prevent clotting
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How do you radiogrpah a hedgehog
Use GA and positioning aides
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