When something’s wrong with pet rabbits or guinea pigs, hamsters, and other pocket pets, the signs are often subtle and easy for even attentive pet owners to miss. These gentle creatures are wired to hide symptoms of illness, which means by the time you notice changes, their condition may already be serious. Happy Valley Pet Hospital has this guide to help pet owners like you recognize when your small mammal pet needs medical attention from a veterinarian.
What Are Symptoms of Illness in Pocket Pets?
Small mammal pets are complex animals with specific health requirements. Illnesses and health issues can escalate quickly. Keep an eye out for any of the following behaviors or physical changes in your rabbit or pocket pet:
- Refusing food
- Smaller or malformed droppings
- Bloating or lack of stool production
- Unusual stillness or hiding more than normal
- Rapid breathing, nasal discharge, or sneezing
- Discharge around the eyes
- Weight loss or a bony appearance
- Wetness around the mouth or excessive drooling
- Head tilt or loss of coordination
- Persistent scratching or fur loss
Even one of these symptoms could indicate an issue worth addressing quickly with a small mammal veterinarian.
Health Problems in Small Mammals
Teeth Troubles
Rabbits, guinea pigs, and certain other pets have teeth that grow continuously. Overgrown or misaligned teeth can make eating painful and lead to dangerous infections if not addressed.
Respiratory Conditions
“Snuffles” in rabbits or similar symptoms (sneezing and nasal discharge) in pocket pets can signal bacterial infections that compromise breathing. These often worsen without veterinary treatment.
Digestive Issues
If your rabbit or guinea pig stops eating or eliminating waste, gastrointestinal stasis could be the cause. This condition is life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.
Parasites and Skin Disorders
Bald patches, constant scratching, and flaky skin are signs of mites or fungal infections in pocket pets.
Ear Infections
Unusual head tilting or poor balance may stem from an inner ear infection. Fast treatment prevents further complications, especially in species like lop rabbits.
Urinary or Bladder Issues
Small mammal pets can develop urinary tract infections and bladder stones, often revealed through blood in urine or straining during urination.
Proactive Pocket Pet Care Tips
- Weigh your pet weekly and track any losses
- Maintain a consistent, species-appropriate diet
- Keep their living space clean and temperature-controlled
- Handle your small pet gently and regularly to catch unusual behaviors early
- Schedule annual checkups with a vet experienced in small mammal care
Treating Sick Small Mammal Pets in Campbell, CA
Your small pet may not be able to vocalize when they’re hurting, but their bodies often send signals that something’s wrong. If you believe that your rabbit or pocket pet could be sick or suffering from a medical issue, contact a veterinarian right away. Happy Valley Pet Hospital has veterinary services for small mammal pets in Campbell and from neighboring areas like Saratoga and Los Gatos. Give us a call to schedule an appointment with our pocket pet vet.
