This archive article (written 2009–2016) contains advice that may be out of date and is waiting for veterinary review. Please check with your vet before acting on it. About our articles
| Keeping Your Pet rodent Healthy |
| Pet rodents aren't
given rabies vaccinations because they seem to be immune to the disease.
Vaccines for other illnesses aren't marketed for rodents, so it's
important to isolate any newly acquired animal for 30 days, keeping it
away from your other pets. Any symptoms of illness should show up in
that period. "Well pet" visits to the veterinarian are important even if there's no sign of disease, since the doctor can uncover subtler health problems and check for proper body weight. Vets recommend visits every six to 12 months. |
| Your vet can spay or
neuter your pet rodents in a surgical procedure similar to that used in
dogs. The surgery requires general anesthesia. The continuing growth of the front teeth of rodents can cause problems. Some animals have badly positioned teeth that fail to wear down naturally because they're out of alignment as a result of a head blow or gum infections. In those cases, a veterinarian will perform periodic tooth trims or will pull the teeth. Rodents can live fairly normal lives without front teeth, but your vet will adjust its diet. |