Small Mammal Flashcards
SM01-08
name the rodent suborder
mice, rats, gerbils, hamsters, voles, lemmings
myomorphs
name the rodent suborder
guinea pigs, chinchilla, degu
hystricomorph
name the rodent suborder
beavers, kangaroo rats
castrimorpha
name the rodent suborder
anomalures, springhares, zenkerella
anomaluromorph
name the rodent suborder
squirrel
sciuromorph
name the sub-order of Myomorphs
mice and rats
Muridae
name the sub-order of Myomorphs
hamsters and gerbils
Cricetidae
what is the diet of mice and gerbils?
omnivorous
how to sex a rodent?
anogenital distance and number of openings
name the rodent sex
two ‘openings’
greater ano-genital distance
male
(usually very obvious testicles)
name the rodent sex
three ‘openings’
shorter ano-genital distance
female
(separate vaginal and urethral opening)
name 2 specific anatomy considerations for male rodents
- open inguinal canals
- os penis
name the 5 key parts of a rodent clinical exam
- demeanour
- HR and RR
- Nose to tail
- ventrum
- weight and BCS
what is remy?
a RRRRRRAT
what are the 2 main non-infectious cause of diarrhoea in mice
- sudden diet change
- engorgement of food
name 2 viral causes of diarrhoea in mice
- mouse hepatitis virus (Coronavirus)
- epizootic diarrhoea virus of infant mice (Rotavirus)
name 6 bacterial causes of diarrhoea in mice
- Tyzzer’s disease (Clostridium piliforme)
- C. perfringens and C. difficile
- E. coli
- Lawsonia intracellularis
- Corynebacterium kutscheri
- Helicobacter
name 3 endoparasites that cause diarrhoea in mice
- pinworms (Syphacia obvelata)
- Cryptosporidium
- Giardia
name 4 clinical signs of heavy infestations of pinworms (Synphacia obvelata) in mice
- diarrhoea
- straining leading to rectal prolapse
- unkept fur coat
- anal pruritis
what is the treatment for pinworms (Synphacia obvelata) in mice
Fenbendazole
name 6 aspects of supportive care that can be given to mice with diarrhoea
- fluid therapy
- probiotics
- kaolin
- bismuth subsalicylate
- warmth
- analgesia (not NSAIDs)
name 3 antibiotics that can be used to treat bacterial diarrhoea in mice (and all myomorph species)
- trimethoprim sulphate
- enrofloxacin
- oxytetracycline (Tyzzer’s)
what is the average lifespan of mice?
1-2.5y
when do mice reach sexual maturity
6-8wks
(2mo)
what is the gestation period of mice?
19-21d
what is the litter size for mice
5-12
name 4 predisposing factors of mammary gland neoplasia in mice
- stress
- hormones
- carcinogens
- retroviruses
this is a possible sequelae of ejaculatory plugs in male mice (normal finding) if obstructive to urine flow
(uncommon)
hydronephrosis
what is the most common cause of morbidity in laboratory mice?
respiratory disease
name 3 bacterial causes of respiratory disease in mice
- Mycoplasma pulmonis
- Corynebacterium kutscheri
- Pasteurella pneumotropica
name 2 viral causes of respiratory disease in mice
- Sendai virus
- PVM (pneumonia virus of mice)
name 3 fur mites affecting mice
- Myobia musculi
- Mycoptes musculinus
- Radfordia affinis
name the fur mite affecting mice
23d lifecycle;
varying severity;
alopecia, self trauma, greasy coat;
head, neck, flank, lateral thorax
Myobia musculi
name the fur mite affecting mice
8-14d lifecycle;
back and ventrum
Mycoptes musculinis
what is the treatment for fur mites in mice?
two doses Ivermectin 10-14d apart
(200-400 IU/kg)
name the skin disease in mice
intense pruritis;
head and thorax;
significant self trauma;
dermal ulceration, necrosis and fibrosis;
cause: vasculitis - immune complex deposits on dermal vessels
idiopathic ulcerative dermatitis
name the skin disease in mice
annular constriction of the tail;
pups more likely to be affected than adults;
low environmental humidity;
oedema, necrosis and sloughing;
Tx: amputation
Ringtail
this is a normal finding in rodent urinalysis
proteinuria
name 5 possible urinary tract diseases in mice
- amyloidosis
- interstitial nephritis
- chronic glomerulonephritis
- leptospirosis
- obstructive uropathies
name the unique anatomy of gerbils
used for territory marking;
rubbing abdomen;
sebaceous gland;
larger and more prominent in sexually mature males
ventral scent gland with orange secretion
why should gerbil NEVER be restrained by the tail
high risk of de-gloving injury
name 2 common conditions of gerbils that can be identified on clinical exam
- masses of ears and scent glands
- cystic ovarian disease in females
what is the average lifespan of gerbils
2-4y
when do gerbils reach sexual maturity
6-8wks
what is the gestation period of gerbils
23-26d
what is the litter size of gerbils
3-8
what is the weaning age of gerbils
20-30d
name the cause of diarrhoea in gerbils
most commonly reported fatal infectious disease in gerbils;
sub-optimal husbandry, weaning and immunosuppression;
oral route of infection;
diarrhoea, anorexia, dehydration and death;
bacterial spores survive for 1y+ at room temp
Tyzzer’s disease
(Clostridium piliforme)
what neurological disease are gerbils predisposed to due to deficiency of cerebral glutamine synthesis
Epilepsy
name the cause of head tilt in gerbils
common in aging rodents;
keratinising epithelial mass;
bone destruction;
secondary otitis media/interna
aural neoplasia - cholesteatoma
how common is cystic ovarian disease in gerbils?
50% females over 400d old
how to treat cystic ovarian disease in gerbils?
ovariohysterectomy
this is the most common tumour of pet gerbils, and most frequently reported neoplasia in lab gerbils;
more common in older animals;
metastasise in the abdomen;
incidence higher in non-breeding females
ovarian granulosa cell tumours
name the gland
located in the retrobulbar space;
plays an important role in tehrmoregulation;
lipids insulate from cold and wet;
lipids and protoporphyrin pigments get mixed with salive and groomed on the coat
Harderian gland
this should be available to rodents to promote normal skin and fur coat health
sand bath
name 3 conditions in rodents that deprivation of sand baths can lead to
- nasal dermatitis
- behavioural issues
- unkept fur coat
name 4 causes of Barbering (skin disease) in gerbils
- stress
- overcrowding
- dominant behaviour
- weight loss from competition of food resources
how much urine does a gerbil pass each day?
2-4 drops per day
name 5 clinical signs of chronic renal disease in gerbils
- PU/PD
- weight loss
- anorexia
- lethargy
- secondary signs of infection
start of SM02
what colour of myomorph (hamsters, etc) incisors
yellow
will the upper or lower incisors of myomorphs (hamsters etc) be longer?
lower
name the part of the hamster
highly distensible invaginations of the buccal mucosa;
cover the masseter muscles, lateral neck and shoulder muscles
cheek pouches
name the 2 parts of a hamster stomach
- non-glandular forestomach
- glandular stomach
name 2 types of bacteria found in the caecum of a hamster
- bacteroides
- lactobacillus
where is the sebaceous scent gland located in dwarf hamsters?
ventral
where is the sebaceous scent gland located in Syrian hamsters?
flank
name 3 underlying causes of cheek pouch impaction in hamsters
- inappropriate food material
- bedding
- incisor malloclusion
name 4 general causes of diarrhoea in hamsters
- sudden dietary change
- bacterial
- parasitic
- iatrogenic
name the GIT disease in hamsters
watery foul-smelling diarrhoea, dehydration, death within 3-8wks;
rectal prolapse and intussusception common;
palpably thickened bowel
‘wet tail’
(Lawsonia intracellularis)
name 2 PM signs at the terminal ileum to definitively diagnose ‘wet tail’ in hamsters
- hyperplasia of mucosa
- musle hypertrophy
what is the prognosis for ‘wet tail’ in hamsters
Tx often unsuccessful;
death in 24-48h
name the GIT disease in hamsters, guinea pigs and chinchillas
usually iatrogenic - inappropraite abx (penicillins, clindamycin, lincomycin, eryhtromycin);
dysbiosis leads to overgrowth of C. spiriforme and C. difficile;
Tx: fluids, warmth, Cholestryamine, metronidazole, probiotics
clostridial enterotoxaemia
what is the most common endocrine disease in hamsters?
hyperadrenocorticism
name the 3 variations of hyperadrenocorticism in hamsters
- pituitary dependent
- adrenal dependent
- iatrogenic
name 6 clinical signs of hyperadrenocorticism in hamsters
- bilateral alopecia of the flank/thigh
- skin thinning
- hyperpigmentation of the skin
- hepatomegaly
- polydipsia/polyuria
- behavioural changes
what is the normal plasma cortisol levels of hamsters
13.8-27.6 nmol/L
what is the normal alkaline phosphatase on biochemsitry for hamsters
8-18 IU/L
name 2 medical treatments for hyperadrenocorticism in hamsters
- Metapyrone (8mg/kg PO q24h for 30d)
- Mitotane (5mg PO q24h for 30d) - poor results
which hamster breed is predisposed to Diabetes Mellitus;
autosomal recessive, polygenic
Chinese hamster
name 4 clinical signs of Diabetes Mellitus in hamsters
- PU/PD
- weight loss
- glucosuria
- polyphagia
what is the normal glucose level for hamsters?
7 mmol/L
(diabetic over 16)
what is the average lifespan for hamsters
1.5-2y
when do male hamsters reach sexual maturity
2mo
when do female hamsters reach sexual maturity
1.5mo
what is the gestation period of Syrian hamsters
16-18d
what is the gestation period of Russian hamsters
18-21d
what is the gestation period of Chinese hamsters
21-23d
what is the gestation period of Roborovski hamsters
23-30d
what is the litter size for hamsters
3-10
how long is the oestrus cycle for hamsters
4 days
name the CV disease in hamsters
reported in lab hamsters ;
onset of disease is earlier in females than males;
gender incidence is the same though;
most common in left atrium, secondary to heart failure
atrial thrombosis
name 4 clinica signs of cardiomyopathy in hamsters
- tachypnoea
- lethargy
- anorexia
- cold extremities
how to diagnose cardiomyopathy in hamsters
thoracic radiographs under inhalation anaesthetic
name 2 mites affecting hamsters
- Demodex criceti (short and fat body)
- Demodex aurati (cigar shaped)
name 2 treatments for Demodex mites on hamsters
- subcutaneous ivermectin
- bathing with amitraz, benzoyl peroxide shampoo
name 4 clinical signs of Demodex mites in hamsters
- underlying disease causing immunosuppression
- moderate to severe alopecia
- scale
- erythema
(usually non-pruritic)
name 2 causes of Dermatophytosis (ringworm) in hamsters
- Trichophyton mentagrophytes
- Microsporum sp.
name 3 clinical signs of dermatophytosis (ringworm) in hamsters
- alopecia
- crust
- erythema
(asymptomatic carriers!)
what is the treatment for ringworm in hamsters
itraconazole, topical enilconazole
what are the most common neoplasia causing skin disease in hamsters?
melanomas and melanocytomas
what is the most common neoplasm in hamsters?
lymphoma
name 3 forms of lymphoma in hamsters
- multicentric
- cutaneous
- epizootic
name the 3 main organs affected by multicentric form of lymphoma in hamsters
- spleen
- lymph nodes
- liver
name 5 clinical signs of cutaneous lymphoma in hamsters
- alopecia
- pruritis
- flakey skin
- cutaneous plaques
- ulceration
name the cause of transmissible lymphoma and cutaneous epitheliomas in hamsters;
wart-like lesions around the eyes, mouth or perianal in 3-12mo old hamsters;
highly infectious, transmitted via urine;
long incubation period, very resistant in environment
hamster polyomavirus (HaPV)
start of SM03
how many teeth do rats have?
16
what is the dental formula of rats
2x (I 1/1, C 0/0, PM 0/0, M 3/3)
secretion of this from the Harderian glands of rats results in chromodacryorhea or ‘red tears’;
occur due to stress or disease
porphyrins
why is incisor overgrowth commonly misdiagnosed in rats?
lower incisors normally much longer than upper
name the GI disease in rats
‘mumps’
caused by a Coronavirus;
highly contagious between rats;
direct contact - aerosols;
affects cervical salivary glands leading to inflammation and oedema;
rhinitis and epithial necrosis
Sialodacryoadenitis virus - Parker’s
name 4 clinical signs of Sialodacryoadenitis virus in rats relating to the disruption of lacrimal system
- conjunctivitis
- corneal ulceration
- keratitis
- synechiae
name 3 diagnostics for Sialodacryoadenitis virus in rats
- phenol red thread test
- fluorescein dye
- tonometery (IOPs)
name the musculoskeletal disease of rats
causes avascular necrosis of the femoral head;
predisposing factors: young rats, standing up on hind limbs for long periods of time;
Tx as in canines
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
name the musculoskeletal disease of rats
degenerative myelopathy;
old rat;
owners notice altered gait;
progressive loss of function: loss of tail control, urinary incontinence, muscle wastage, weight loss, ultimately paresis and paralysis
radiculoneuropathy
what is the treatment for radiculoneuropathy in rats
anti-inflammatory medication
name 5 environmental changes that can be made for rats with radiculoneuropathy
- fleece bedding
- lower hammocks
- reduce height of food and water
- bottom baths to manage urine staining and prevent scald
- separate feeding time
name 4 causes of head tilt in rats
- otitis
- CNS infection
- CNS lesion
- aural foreign body
what is the average lifespan of rats
2-3.5y
when do rats reach sexual maturity
1mo
what is the oestrus cycle of rats
continupus polyoestrus
what is the gestation period of rats
21-23d
what is the litter size for rats
6-13
what is the weaning age of rats
21d
what type of tumours are the majority of mammary tumours in rats?
80% fibroadenoma
(benign)
name 4 consequences that could occur if mammary tumours are not removed from rats
- mechanical alopecia
- erosion and ulceration
- secondary infection
- pain and self trauma
name 2 ways to prevent mammary tumours in rats
- early neutering
- deslorelin hormonal implant
name the 3 main respiratory pathogens in rats
- Mycoplasma pulmonis
- Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Corynebacterium kutscheri
name the 2 main respiratory syndromes in rats
- CRD - Chronic Respiratory Disease
- Bacterial pneumonia
what is the major pathogen of chronic respiratory disease (CRD) in rats
Mycoplasma pulmonis
name 6 clinical signs of chronic respiratory disease (CRD) in rats
- nasal discharge
- ‘rattly-bubbly’ resp
- coughing/sneezing
- dyspnoea/abd effort
- red tears
- weight loss
what clinical sign of chronic respiratory disease (CRD) in rats gives a poor prognosis
open mouth breathing
name 3 consequences of chronic respiratory disease (CRD) in rats
- subacute and chronic bronchitis
- chronic resp epithelial dysfunction
- secondary bacterial infections
how to treat chronic respiratory disease (CRD) in rats
treat bronchitis (bronchodilators), reduce underlying inflammation, antibiosis
name the main cause of bacterial pneumonia in rats;
always with other agents (major - Mycoplasma pulmonis, minor - Sendai virus or CAR bacillus)
Streptococcus pneumoniae
name 4 clinical signs of bacterial pneumonia in rats
- dyspnoea
- abdominal effort to breathing
- weight loss
- purulent nasal discharge
what is the treatment for bacterial pneumonia in rats
beta-lactamase resistant penicillins
(amoxicillin and clavulanic acid)
name 2 antibiotics that can be used in the treatment of chronic respiratory disease (CRD) in rats
- doxycycline
- azithromycin
name the ear mite affecting rats
Notoedres muris
name the fur mite affecting rats
Radfordia ensifera
how to treat fur mites (Radfordia ensifera) in rats
ivermectine SC daily/q10d
name 2 treatments for ulcerative dermatitis in rats
- clipping claws
- topical antibacterial
name the ectoparasite affecting rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, APH
opportunistic parasite;
spends little time on host;
actively penetrates the skin for a blood meal;
large burdens = anaemia;
ZOONOTIC
tropical rat mite
(Ornithonyssus bacoti)
name the 2-fold treatment for the tropical rat mite (Ornithonyssus bacoti)
- environmental - fipronil
- animal - selamectin
name 4 clinical signs of chronic progressive nephrosis in rats
- PU/PD
- weight loss
- anorexia
- lethargy
what is the kidney appearance in a rat with chronic progressive nephrosis
enlarged, pale, pitted
what is the 3-part treatment for chronic progressive nephrosis in rats
- supportive
- low protein diet
- anabolic steroids
start of SM04
what is the scientific name for African Pygmy Hedgehogs?
Atelerix albiventris
what family and order are African Pygmy Hedgehogs part of
family: Erinaceidae
order: Insectivora
what is the average weight of a female African Pygmy Hedgehog
250-400g
what is the average weight of male African Pygmy Hedgehogs
500-600g
what is the muscular ring on the dorsum of African Pygmy Hedgehogs called?
contracts so iot can roll up into a ball as a defence mechanism
orbicularis muscle
what is the behaviour where African Pygmy Hedgehogs put foamy saliva on quills called?
anointing behaviour
what is the normal body temp of African Pygmy Hedgehogs
36.1-37.2 C
what is the normal resp rate of African Pygmy Hedgehogs
25-50 bpm
what is the normal HR of African Pygmy Hedgehogs
180-280 bpm
what is the average life expectancy of captive African Pygmy Hedgehogs
5-7 y
name 2 common zoonotic diseases carried by African Pygmy Hedgehogs that mean you should always wear gloves when handling
- Salmonella
- ringworm
how to sex African Pygmy Hedgehogs?
greater ano-genital distance in male
how many African Pygmy Hedgehogs should be kept together?
singly
or in same sex pairs raised together
how much light should African Pygmy Hedgehogs be given per day?
10-14h per day
what is the diet of African Pygmy Hedgehogs?
insectivore/omnivore
when should African Pygmy Hedgehogs be fed?
at night, remove uneaten food in morning
give an example of the diet that should be fed to African Pygmy Hedgehogs
2-4 tsp dry cat food or insectivore diet
1tsp varied moist food (cat/dog, cooked eggs, cottage cheese)
3-5 insects as treats 3x a week
when do African Pygmy Hedgehogs reach sexual maturity
2 mo
at what age must African Pygmy Hedgehogs be bred?
before fusion of pubic symphysis!
6mo - 2y
how long is the gestation of African Pygmy Hedgehogs
34-37d
(up to 40d)
when do African Pygmy Hedgehogs wean?
5-6wks
when do the spines erupt on young African Pygmy Hedgehogs?
few hours after birth
name 3 locations for blood samples from African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- cephalic vein
- femoral vein
- lateral saphenous vein
what is the max volume of blood you can take from African Pygmy Hedgehogs for samples
1% of BW
(0.5% if debilitated)
where should subcutaneous injections be given to African Pygmy Hedgehogs
in flank at junction of furred and spined skin mid-body
where should IM injections be given to African Pygmy Hedgehogs
orbicularis muscle of mantle
name 2 locations for IV cannulas in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- cephalic vein
- lateral saphenous vein
what temp should weak/debilitated African Pygmy Hedgehogs be kept at while hospitalised
27-29 C
name 3 common ocular diseases seen in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- corneal ulcers
- ocular proptosis
- cataracts
why is ocular proptosis is common in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
shallow orbit and retrobulbar fat pad
name 5 causes of pinnal dermatitis in African Pygmy Hedgehogs that can lead to secondary otitis external/media
- dermatophytosis
- mites (Caparinia tripilis, Notoedres cati, Otodectes cyanotis)
- bacterial
- yeast
- nutritional deficiencies
name 3 common mites affecting African Pygmy Hedgehogs and causing pinnal dermatitis
- Caparinia tripilis
- Notoedres cati
- Otodectes cyanotis
what is the treatment for mites in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
oral Fluralaner
(15mg/kg - one dose)
which oral neoplasia is common in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
squamous cell carcinoma
name 4 clinical signs of dental disease in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- decr appetite
- excess salivation
- halitosis
- pawing at the mouth
name 3 bacterial causes of bronchopneumonia in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- Corynebacterium
- Pasteurella
- Bordetella
name 5 clinical signs of bronchopneumonia in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- nasal discharge
- dyspnoea
- resp noise
- lethargy
- reduced appetite
name 6 clinical signs of cardiomyopathy in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- dyspnoea
- weight loss
- reduced activity
- heart murmur
- ascites
- death
name 5 signs of cardiomyopathy in African Pygmy Hedgehogs seen on radiographs
- cardiac enlargement
- pleural effusion
- pulmonary oedema
- ascites
- hepatic congestion
name 3 treatments for cardiomyopathy in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- furosemide
- digoxin
- enalapril
what is the most common bacterial cause of enteritis in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
Salmonella
name 4 clinical signs seen for urinary tract disease in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- reduced appetite
- weight loss
- stranguria
- pollakiuria
what is the main differential for urinary tract disease in female African Pygmy Hedgehogs
reproductive disease
name the neuro disease of African Pygmy Hedgehogs
idiopathic neurodegenerative disease;
initially mild ataxia, loss of balance, stumbling/tripping up, muscle atrophy, tremors, exophthalmos, seizures;
hindlimbs first progressing to forelimbs;
CS progressively worsen over a few months;
death at 18-25mo from diagnosis usually
demyelinating paralysis
aka
Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome
name 3 differentials for demyelinating paralysis (Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome) in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- IVDD
- brain tumour
- hepatic encephalopathy
how to diagnose demyelinating paralysis (Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome) in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
PM histology
(vacuoles in white matter of brain)
name 2 ectoparasites causing skin disease in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
- Caparinia triplis (psoroptid)
- Notoedres (sarcoptid)
how to treat skin disease caused by ectoparasites in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
ivermectin PO or SQ q10-14d for 3-5 treatments
how long should African Pygmy Hedgehogs be fasted prior to anaesthesia induction
4-6h
start of SM05
what is the diet of chinchillas and degus
herbivores
(high fibre)
how many teeth do chinchillas and degus have?
20
what is the dental formula for chinchillas and degus (histricomorphs)
I 1/1, C 0/0, PM 1/1, M 3/3
what colour are chinchillas and degus incisors?
yellow
name the 6 steps of chinchillas and degus clinical exam
- demeanor
- TPR
- nose to tail exam
- ventrum
- weight and BCS
- otoscope exam of dentition
how to sex chinchillas and degus?
males have greater anogenital distance
what is the most common condition of histricomorph rodents (guinea pigs, chinchillas and degus)
dental disease
what is the most common cause of dental disease in histricomorph rodents (guinea pigs, chinchillas and degus)
inadequate dietary fibre
what type of environments are wild chinchillas and degus found?
South American mountainous regions
name 2 differences in dentition between chinchillas and degus vs rabbits
- cheek teeth aligned at rest
- lower incisors behind and not in-contact with upper incisors at rest
name 6 non-specific clinical signs of dental disease in chinchillas and degus
- GI stasis
- reduced activity leves
- altered behaviour
- faecal staining at perineum
- un-kempt fur coat
- weight loss
name 3 ways to prevent dental disease in chinchillas and degus
- high fibre diet
- 6 monthly health checks with otoscopic exam of mouth
- owner education
which small mammal is the most commonly affected by Diabetes mellitus
degus
name the type of diabetes mellitus
high resting blood glucose;
low resting insulin levels;
failure to secrete insulin in the presence of hyperglycaemia;
patient DOES respond to insulin;
exogenous source
type 1 - insulin dependent
(dog)
name the type of diabetes mellitus
high resting blood glucose;
normal/high resting insulin;
failure of insulin receptors to respond to insulin
type 2 - insulin resistant
what product is co-secreted along with insulin?
deposited around islet cells, isolate beta cells
amyloid
name 6 clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in degus
- PU/PD
- altered appetite
- weight loss
- depression
- cataract formation
- fertility problems
what is the normal blood glucose value in degus?
8 mmol/L
name 2 treatments for diabetes mellitus in degus
(along with diet correction and weight loss in obese animals)
- isulin therapy - low dose (type 1)
- oral hypoglycaemic drug - glipizide (for type 2)
name 3 causes of dystocia in chinchillas and degus
- pup oversize
- uterine inertia
- underlying disease with debilitation
how to treat uterine inertia in chinchillas and degus
calcium followed by oxytocin
what is the prognosis for intussusception or rectal prolapse (secondary to diarrhoea or enteritis) in chinchillas
poor prognosis
name 3 medical treatments for bloat in chinchillas
- analgesia
- fluid therapy
- gentle massage
(cannot pass orogastric tube conscious for gas/fluid drainage)
name the endoparasite of chinchillas
infection can be harboured by healthy chinchillas;
carrier status;
CS: appetite loss, diarrhoea, reduced BCS, unkept fur coat - young more susceptible to signs
giardia
name 2 treatments for giardia in chinchillas
- fenbendazole
- metronidazole
name 2 treatment options for fractures in chinchillas
- splint
- surgical fixation (specialist equipment)
name the condition affecting male chinchillas
hair accumulation around base of penis leading to strangulation injuries;
can be sign of reduced grooming;
reversible if discovered early
fur ring
name 6 clinical signs of fur ring in male chinchillas
- paraphimosis
- penile discolouration
- agitation
- self trauma
- stranguria
- GI stasis
name 3 things that can result in secondary conjunctivitis in chinchillas
- irritation from sand bath
- underlying tear duct infection
- poor ventilation
what bacterial infection is a primary cause of conjunctivitis in chinchillas
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
start of SM06
how long can guinea pigs live in captivity?
8y
what is the average weight for male guinea pigs?
900-1200 g
what is the average weight for female guinea pigs?
700-900g
what is the diet of guinea pigs
herbivores
(mainly grasses)
name 2 negative behaviours of guinea pigs
- bar chewing
- teeth chattering
name 5 positive behaviours of guinea pigs
- ‘wheeking’
- lying on their side
- ‘popcorning’
- standing on hind legs
- gnawing
what is the dentition of guinea pigs? ie what kind of teeth?
continuously erupting aradicular elodont dentition
how much vitamin C to guinea pigs need
10 mg/kg/day
(2-3x this during pregnancy)
what is the most popular grazing time for guinea pigs
late afternoon / evening
what is the dental formula for guinea pigs
I 1/1, C 0/0, PM 1/1, M 3/3 x2
these are glands found in male guinea pigs located intra-abdominally that are coiled and can be 10cm long
vesicular glands
this is a gland found in older male guinea pigs
caudal gland
(or coccygeal gland)
how to sex a guinea pig?
females have Y-shaped anogenital area;
males have round preputial orifice
what is the normal HR for guinea pigs
200-300 bpm
what is the normal RR for guinea pigs
40-120 bpm
what is the normal rectal temp for guinea pigs
37.2-39.5 C
what is unique about the oral anatomy of guinea pigs
soft palate is continuous with tongue base
what is the occlusal angle for guinea pigs
oblique
what is the most common cause of dental disease in guinea pigs
inadequate dietary fibre
name 8 clinical signs of GI stasis in guinea pigs
- reduced droppings
- abdominal distension
- anorexia
- tooth grinding
- reduced gut sounds
- painful abdomen
- weight loss
- lethargy
name 3 differentials for GI stasis in guinea pigs
- intestinal obstruction
- GDV
- omental torsion
name 4 antibiotics that should be AVOIDED in guinea pigs
- oral penicillins
- cephalosporins
- lincosamides
- macrolides
why are female guinea pigs thought to be more prone to ascending bacterial UTIs
urethral opening closer to the anus
name 5 bacterial agents causing UTIs in guinea pigs
- E. coli
- Strep pyogenes
- Staph spp
- Chlamydophila caviae
- Corynebacterium renale
name 5 possible blood sample sites for guinea pigs
- cranial vena cava
- lateral saphenous
- femoral
- jugular
- ear
what is the 3-part treatment for cystitis in guinea pigs
- analgesia (buprenorphine/meloxicam)
- abx therapy (TMPS)
- flush bladder under GA
(also bladder support and fluids)
what medication can be given to guinea pigs with stifle arthritis as long-term analgesia
tramadol
(5-10mg/kg PO q12-24h)
what is the most common urolith found in guinea pigs urine
calcium carbonate
name 3 predisposing factors for urolithiasis in guinea pigs
- diet high in calcium or oxalate
- reduced water intake
- the alkaline pH and normal high mineral content of urine
what is the most commonly associated urine abnormality in guinea pigs with urolithiasis
haematuria
name 3 types of hay that are low in calcium and good to feed to guinea pigs with urolith issues
- timothy hay
- meadow grass
- oat hay
what type of hay should be avoided in guinea pigs with uroliths as it is high in calcium
alfalfa hay
name 4 foods with high levels of oxalates that should be avoided in guinea pigs with urinary issues (uroliths)
- spinach
- kale
- parsley
- celery
how much vitamin C should be fed to guinea pigs each day?
50 mg/kg per day
name 5 clinical signs of kidney disease in guinea pigs
- weight loss
- PU/PD
- starey coat (dry/harsh)
- anorexia
- loose droppings
how to diagnose kidney disease in guinea pigs
bloods
(elevated urea and creatinine, anaemia)
start of SM07
name 3 types of cysts in guinea pig cystic ovarian disease
- cystic rete ovarii - serous
- follicular cyst
- paraovarian cysts
name the type of ovarian cysts in guinea pigs
non-functional;
spontaneous;
mesonephric tubules;
serous
cystic rete ovarii
name the type of ovarian cyst in guinea pigs
less common;
often functional - oestrogen;
irregular oestrus cycles
follicular cysts
name 7 clinical signs of cystic ovarian disease in guinea pigs
(initially asymptomatic)
- abdominal distension
- pain when being handled
- non-pruritic alopecia
- infertility
- vaginal bleeding
- GI stasis
- weight loss
name 3 medical treatments for cystic ovarian disease in guinea pigs
- suprelorin implant (deslorelin acetate)
- HCG (human gonadotrophin)
- leuprolide acetate
what is the surgical treatment for cystic ovarian disease in guinea pigs
ovariohysterectomy
name the two forms of pregnancy toxaemia that can occur in obese pregnant guinea pigs
- toxic form
- true metabolic form
name the type of pregnancy toxaemia in guinea pigs
in obese pregnant animals where foetal displacement causes impaired uterine blood supply followed by ischaemia, foetal death and DIC
toxic form
name the type of pregnancy toxaemia in guinea pigs
initiated by a stressor such as fasting or transport
true metabolic form
name 7 clinical signs of pregnancy toxaemia in guinea pigs
- depression
- anorexia
- abortion
- salivation
- convulsions
- coma
- death
what is are the 3 treatments for pregnancy toxaemia in guinea pigs
- glucose or dextrose-containing fluids
- corticosteroids (risk to foetuses)
- calcium gluconate
name 4 causative agents of resp disease/pneumonia in guinea pigs
- Bordetella bronchiseptica
- Moraxella
- Pseudomonas
- Streptococcus
name the cause of resp disease in guinea pigs
can have symtomless carriers (20% of colony);
can develop immunity and eliminate the bacteria;
rabbits and dogs can pass it to guinea pigs;
transmitted by aerosol, direct contact, fomites;
overt disease usually stress-related
Bordetella
name 5 treatments for respiratory disease in guinea pigs
- oxygen therapy
- appropriate antibiosis
- nebulisation
- NSAIDs
- supportive care
name the CV disease in guinea pigs
older guinea pigs;
dyspnoea, anorexia, lethargy;
Dx: radiography, ecg, echocardiography;
Tx: enalapril, furosemide and pimobendan;
prognosis poor, survival rates 3-6mo
dilated cardiomyopathy
why do guinea pigs require an exogenous source of vitamin C in their diet
absence of enzyme L-gluconolactone oxidase
(required to convert L-gluconolactone to L-abscorbic acid)
name 7 possible clinical signs of hypovitaminosis C in guinea pigs;
unable to synthesise collagen at normal rate - range of clinical signs
- thin, unkempt, roughened hair coat
- scaling of pinnae
- lethargy, weakness
- anorexia
- haemorrhage in periarticular regions (unsteady gait)
- dental abnormalities
- diarrhoea
these are crusy scabs around the philtrum that can be caused by oversupplementing vitamin C in guinea pigs
chelitis
name 8 vitamin C rich food items
- leafy greens (spinach, kale, cabbage)
- fresh hay
- fresh herbs (parsley)
- garden weeds (dandelions)
- root veggies (beetroot, carrots)
- asparagus
- tomatoes
- peppers
name 2 supplements that can be given to guinea pigs to prevent development of osteoarthritis
- glucosamine
- chondrotin sulfate
what is the most common cause of otitis media/interna in guinea pigs
Streptococcus infection
name 4 clinical signs of otitis media/interna in guinea pigs
- head tilt
- circling
- rolling
- nystagmus
name the guinea pig ectoparasite
extreme pruritis;
highly reactive on handling;
distracted;
reduced appetite and weight loss;
self trauma;
seizures
Trixacarus caviae
name the guinea pig ectoparasite
can be found in young or immunosuppressed guinea pigs;
scaly, crusting areas of alopecia on the feet, face and dorsum;
Trichophyton and Microsporum species;
Dx: cytology of lesions and culture;
treat all in-contacts;
ZOONOTIC
ringworm
name the 3-part treatment for ringworm in guinea pigs
- oral itraconazole or terbafine
- topical antifungal sprays
- environmental decontamination
name the skin neoplasia in guinea pigs
most common skin growth;
benign growht;
hair follicle;
can grow quite large;
complete incision is curative
Trichofolliculoma
what sex of guinea pigs are mammary tumours more common in
male
what percent of mammary tumours in male guinea pigs are malignant
75%
name the ophthalmic condition in guinea pigs
deposit of lipid in bulbar conjunctiva;
diet related;
non-painful;
good opportunity to diet check;
no Tx needed
pea eye or fatty eye
what is the most common endocrine disorder of guinea pigs
hyperthyroidism
name 6 clinical signs of hyperthyroidism in guinea pigs
- hyperactivity
- weight loss
- reduced BCS
- PU/PD
- polyphagia
- soft droppings
name 3 treatment options for hyperthyroidism in guinea pigs
- lifelong medical management with methimazole or carbimazole
- surgical removal of thyroid gland
- radioactive iodine
start of SM08
should rabbits be fasted prior to anaesthesia?
NO
should rodents be fasted prior to anaesthesia?
NO
should ferrets be fasted prior to anaesthesia?
YES
(4-6h)
should African Pygmy Hedghogs be fasted prior to anaesthesia?
YES
(4-6h)
what is the dose of meloxicam for ferrets?
0.2 mg/kg
what is the dose of meloxicam for guinea pigs and chinchillas?
0.4-0.6 mg/kg
what is the dose of meloxicam for rats?
up to 1 mg/kg
what is the dose of buprenorphine for small mammals?
0.02-0.05 mg/kg
(long action - 6-8h)
what is the duration of action for lidocaine?
1-2h
what is the toxic dose for lidocaine
3 mg/kg
what is the toxic dose for bupivicaine
2 mg/kg
name 5 aims of pre-medication for anaesthesia
- prevent panic
- muscle relaxation
- reduce consciousness
- analgesia
- reduce inhalation anaesthetic required for maintenance
name 3 negative side effects possible with pre-medication for anaesthesia
- hypothermia
- resp depression
- CV depression
name 3 common combinations used as pre-medication for anaesthesia
- midazolam and buprenorphine
- ‘triple’ (ketamine, dexmedetomidine and buprenorphine or butorphanol)
- hypnorm (fentanyl and fluanisone)
name 3 small mammals where intubation is possible with an endoscope but not routinely done
- guinea pig
- degu
- chinchilla
name 3 small mammals that are routinely intubated
- rats
- african pygmy hedgehogs
- ferrets
name 2 drug options for IV induction in ferrets
- alfaxalone
- propofol
what type of ventilation for a ferret under GA?
mechanical ventilation
what is the flow rate for ferrets under GA?
1.5-2.5 L/min
name 3 ‘Pros’ of using a face mask for maintenance anaesthesia
- simple use
- no laryngeal contact
- if unable to intubate
name 6 ‘Cons’ of using a face mask for maintenance anaesthesia
- potentially incr dead space
- leakage of volatile agent
- IPPV difficult
- agents may cause nasal oedema and mucus production
- tongue can block pharynx
- no protection against upper airway or lower airway obstruction or aspiration
name 4 mask options for maintenance anaesthesia
- malleable rubber masks
- diaphragm seal masks
- silicone low volume mask
- small mammal low dead space
name 4 rules when using a face mask for maintenance anaesthesia
- don’t allow mask to rest on eyes
- don’t allow mask to obstruct the nostrils
- choose mask with minimal dead space and best possible seal
- use extractor fans
what is the best location for IV fluids in APHs, ferrets, guinea pigs, and chinchillas?
cephalic vein
what is the best location for IV fluids in rats?
lateral tail vein
what type of suture should be used to close the muscle layer of small mammals
PDS (polydioxanone)
what type of suture should be used for ligatures, SC and intradermal layers in small mammals
monocryl
(poliyglepcaprone 25)
why are ferrets not routinely neutered?
adrenal gland disease post-neuter
in an open castration for small mammals, what must always be closed?
the tunic
when should an ovariohysterectomy be performed on rats?
before 6-8wks
(before sexual maturity)
when should an ovariohysterectomy be performed on guinea pigs?
before 4-6wks
(before sexual maturity)
what is the anatomical difference in guinea pigs and chinchillas that makes exteriorisation of the ovaries difficult
short mesovarium
name 2 reproductive-related pathologies that rats are prone to and can be prevented with early ovariohysterectomy
- fibroadenomas
- pituitary tumours
name the reproductive-related pathology that guinea pigs are prone to and can be prevented with early ovariohysterectomy
cystic ovarian disease
