Exotic pets come in all shapes and sizes. From our feathered friends to cold-blooded buddies, these pets require special considerations when it comes to day-to-day and long-term care. Often pocket pets, reptiles and amphibians, are mislabeled as low-maintenance or beginning pets. As a veterinary clinic that also cares for exotic and avian species, we are committing to helping pet owners better understand how to provide their pets with the best care, no matter the species. To give your bird, hamster, snake, tortoise, or any other special pet their best life, keep these tips in mind:
1. Do Not Skip Regular Veterinary Care
Pets, no matter the species, benefit from seeing a veterinarian at least once per year. Exotic animals tend to be better at hiding their ailments and can mask chronic pain. When you bring your special pet in for special veterinary care, we can provide your pet with compassionate preventative care..
What maintenance care and wellness checks do exotic pets need?
Birds
- Beak trimming
- Wing clipping
- Nail trimming
We will check:
- Eye health, nare health, and your bird’s throat
- Wing examination
- Heart and lungs
- Vent and crop
- Other issues or concerns that may arise from a physical check
Pocket Pets and Rodents
- Nail trimming
- Teeth trimming
We will check:
- Tumors
- Parasites
- Skin issues
- Eyes, ears, mouth
Reptiles
- Claw clipping
We will check:
- Teeth
- Scales
- Mouth
- Organs
When you bring your exotic pet into Homey Gnome, we can answer any questions you have about your pet’s health. For example, when it comes to reptiles and amphibians, we can advise you on proper housing, humidity, and heat levels.
We can also identify your pet’s gender and spay or neuter them if needed.
2. Provide Your Pet with the Right Diet
Proper nutrition is fundamental for your pet’s health. From buying the right bagged feed and pellets to supplemental fruits, veggies, and treats, you want to ensure your pet has everything they need to thrive.
If you’re not already doing so, be sure to provide your pocket pets, reptiles, and birds,, with fresh fruits and veggies. Not only are these healthy for your pet, but they break up the monotony of their everyday feed.
Reptiles love insects. Some species even enjoy hunting live crickets. If your reptile needs a pick-me-up, check with us to find out if insects are an appropriate snack.
Birds and rodents also love nuts, berries, and sticks.
If you have questions about how to safely supplement your pet’s diet with these, please let us know during your appointment.
3. Enrich Your Pet’s Life
Dogs and cats are not the only pets that need mental stimulation. All pets benefit from variety in activities, habitat fixtures, toys, and interaction with their owners.
Take a moment to check your pet’s habitat and supplies. Be sure your pet has plenty of room to move around and stretch their legs. When it comes to cage or tank size, you want to provide as much space as possible. Include areas for your pet to hide and explore, too.
Include toys in your bird or pocket pet’s cage. Hide foraging treats and switch out hidey-holes from time to time.
If you own an exotic pet that needs human interaction, like a ferret or rabbit, be sure you set aside time every day to spend with your pet. This not only helps relieve stress, but it also reinforces how to interact with people.
Your Special Pet Deserves a Special Vet
We love every species that walks, crawls, slithers, or hops through our doors. If your pet is due for a veterinary exam, make an appointment to see us. We specialize in providing exotic pets with the best veterinary care and their owners with the education they need.
Image credit: Jurie Maree | Pexels