Small Mammal GI Disease Flashcards
What kind of digestive system do small herbivores have?
How does their GI transit time differ to monogastrics?
Hindgut fermentation
Faster GI transit time
Can rabbits and rodents vomit?
No
What dietary component is essential for small herbivore gut motility?
Fiber
How do small herbivores process food “twice”? What benefit does this have?
Cecotrophy - eat droppings to process them again to gain maximal nutritional value
What is the PLACE rule? List these medications
Antibiotics that you should never give orally to small herbivores because they come with VERY high risk
- Penicillins
- Lincosamides
- Aminoglycosides
- Cephalosporins
- Erythromycins
How can aminoglycosides be used safely in small mammals?
can be used topically (not absorbed that way) - never orally
How can you remember which Medications are appropriate to use For Treating Small Mammals?
Medications For Treating Small Mammals?
Metronidazole
Fluoroquinolones
Tetracyclines
Sulphonamides
Macrolides
Which macrolide is not appropriate for use in small mammals?
Erythromycin
Which group of antibiotics is commonly used in small mammals?
Fluoroquinolones
What are the factors which can cause gut stasis in small mammals?
What are the factors which can cause diarrhea in small mammals?
What is gut stasis in small mammals?
inadequate digestion - not a diagnosis
Usually associated with anorexia
Can have potentially fatal consequences if left untreated
What is very important to note on physical exam of a patient experiencing gut stasis?
Mouth/teeth/gums - look for evidence of overgrowth or issues with conformation
Watch animal from a distance and see how they act naturally
Listen to gut sounds
List primary vs secondary GI disease signs associated with gut stasis in small mammals?
Primary GI Disease should be strongly suspected if:
- Hx of poor diet/recent dietary change
- An abnormality is palpable in the gut (Ex. foreign body)
- The onset of gut stasis preceded any development of signs of
malaise (depression and/or anorexia)
Secondary GI Disease may be suspected if:
- History of stress
- Obvious source of pain (Ex. dental disease)
Why might an animal in severe pain look bright and alert in the clinic?
Prey animals - need to look ok in order to survive