Getting a Small Mammal

Everything you need to know about getting a small mammal

Everything you need to know when getting a small mammal - see our top tips and general advice for looking after small furry pets. From food to vaccinations, neutering to dental care, we can help you with it all.

Care advice for small mammals

Small pets like rabbits, gerbils, rats, hamsters and guinea pigs may seem easier to take care of than dogs or cats, but they have some very specific needs that must be attended to, to make sure their lives are healthy and happy.

Below we’ve included some advice from our nursing team but if you want to know more or ever have any particular queries or worries, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.

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  • Small Mammal Food and Feeding
  • Microchipping for Small Animals
  • Vaccinations for Rabbits and Other Small Mammals
  • Flea and Worm Treatments for Small Pets
  • Getting your small pet neutered
  • Dental Care for Small Mammals
  • Exercise & Entertainmnent

Small Mammal Food and Feeding

Every small mammal has different nutritional needs, so if you’re unsure of what to feed your pet, please feel welcome to talk to our vet nurses. Rabbits and guinea pigs need lots of hay to stay healthy, while rats can eat a varied fresh diet of scraps. You should always steer clear of muesli-type food, however, as it can cause numerous health problems.

Microchipping for Small Animals

If your pet spends time outdoors, there’s always the risk of escape or theft, so we strongly advise microchipping. Some people think it’s only possible for cats and dogs, but this isn’t the case. If you’d like advice about microchipping your rabbit or another small mammal, please contact our reception team.

Vaccinations for Rabbits and Other Small Mammals

Vaccination is essential for protecting your rabbit against myxomatosis (myxo) and viral hemorrhagic disease (VHD), both of which are horrible and can be fatal. If you have another small mammal and would like advice about vaccination and other methods of protection, please don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us so we can help.   

Flea and Worm Treatments for Small Pets

Vets advise regular treatment to protect against fleas and worms. Worms are less of a problem than for dogs or cats, but you still may like to know more, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch for a chat.

Getting your small pet neutered

Neutering is another thing that many people assume isn’t suitable for small creatures, but this isn’t the case. In rabbits, it not only prevents extra bunnies to look after, but also helps avoid female rabbits developing uterine cancer. Want to know more? Get your pet booked in for a pre-op health-check.

Dental Care for Small Mammals

Rabbits, rats and other small pets are famous for their teeth – and for good reason. A rabbit’s teeth grow at an average rate of 2mm per week, which means they need to chew lots of fibre-rich food to wear down their teeth and protect against health problems. A good diet should be enough to keep your pet’s teeth healthy, but if you have concerns, please do ask us.

Exercise & Entertainmnent

Hiding places and simple games are essential for the wellbeing of small mammals like rabbits, rats and gerbils. Plastic tubing, cardboard rolls, boxes and wheels are among the various toys you can provide, depending on the type of pet you have. Just ask our nursing team for some tips.

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