Husbandry of small mammals Flashcards
What is the veterinary definition of an ‘exotic’?
Any animal that is not a dog, cat, horse, rabbit or livestock
Compare generalist and specialist characteristics
Generalist = adapt to a wide range of environments, broad diet, adaptable Specialist = precisely adapted to a narrow ecological niche, limited habitat and diet, specific conditions are essential for the animal to thrive
What are the purposes of keeping ‘exotic’ mammals?
- Companionship
- Livestock/laboratory animals
- Conservation
Which 2 species are examples of generalists and give a reason why?
Mice and Rats
- Feed on a mix of seeds, nuts, vegetation, fruit, insects
What does a guinea pigs housing and diet need?
- floor pen with cover
- constant supply of quality hay
- commercial pellet diet with added fresh veg/fruit
- water bottles
- companions
- wood blocks for gnawing
- protection from wind/rain/cold/heat
- vitamin C added to diet
Why are chinchillas adapted to cold environments but can be susceptible to heat stroke?
Very dense fur - 80-100 hairs from each follicle
What is essential for a chinchilla to keep fur clean and dry and allow shedding?
Dust bathing
What is chinchilla malocclusion?
Malocclusion is a faulty or irregular contact of opposing teeth in the upper and lower jaws - teeth or their roots are overgrown
What are the signs of malocclusion?
Slobbering, eye discharge, starvation, death
What are the 2 rodent cage types? compare them
- Wire sides, solid base: good ventilation, easy to clean
2. Terrarium/tank: protect from drafts, keeps bedding inside cage, needs a mesh lid for ventilation
Which species are in the order Insectivora?
Hedgehogs, shrews, moles
What are some special requirements of African pygmy hedgehogs?
Do not hibernate
Non-social: require solitary housing
Dark shelter
