Pet First Aid and Health Considerations for Smaller Pets
Unique Challenges for Smaller Pets
Size Matters: First aid for rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters shares similarities with dogs and cats, but their smaller size presents distinct challenges.
Shock Susceptibility: Smaller pets can enter a state of shock more rapidly due to their higher surface area to volume ratio, making prompt care crucial.
Injury Response: Keep injuries clean, maintain warmth, and prevent shock when caring for wounded small pets before seeking professional veterinary assistance.
Specific Health Concerns
Parasitic Threats: Small pets, like dogs and cats, can suffer from parasitic infestations, with fleas being of particular concern in rabbits due to their ability to transmit Myxomatosis.
Vaccination Importance: Vaccines are available for Myxomatosis and viral haemorrhagic diarrhoea, offering protection for rabbits. A newer strain of haemorrhagic diarrhoea demands vaccination to prevent sudden death.
Respiratory and Skin Issues: Smaller pets are prone to respiratory diseases, which progress quickly due to their lower lung capacity. Skin conditions, often caused by mites, are also common among these pets.