Small Mammal Care
Small mammal and “pocket pet” owners in Albany, NY, can count on our specialized veterinary services at Sand Creek Animal Hospital. Our dedicated veterinarians care for rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, rats, and rodents, providing care centered around their unique needs.
Small Mammal and Pocket Pet Care in Albany, NY
Sand Creek Animal Hospital looks after a wide variety of pets, including beloved critters who fall on the smaller side. No matter if your pocket pet needs specialized care or a standard wellness visit, we’re here to help keep them in the highest health.
What Counts as a Small Mammal/Pocket Pet?
Pocket pets are any small mammals that can fit in one or two hands. Common pocket pets include:
- =Rabbits
- =Rats
- =Hamsters
- =Mice
- =Gerbils
- =Chinchillas
- =Guinea pigs
- =Rabbits
- =Rats
- =Hamsters
- =Mice
- =Gerbils
- =Chinchillas
- =Guinea pigs
Because pocket pets are so much smaller than other common companions, they face very different health risks and challenges than cats and dogs. Our skilled veterinary staff is trained to treat small mammals in particular and develop care plans that address their specific needs.
Common Small Mammal Health Issues
Many small mammals are more likely to experience health issues based on their species. For example, chinchillas are more likely to experience overgrown teeth than other animals and may need changes in their eating habits to prevent digestive issues. Similarly, rats commonly develop respiratory issues that may require specialized care.
Some small animals, like chinchillas, are also at higher risk of heatstroke and require a cooler room than many other pets. You may need to cool down your pet’s cage regularly to prevent medical issues. Consult with your Sand Creek Animal Hospital veterinarian to anticipate your pocket pet’s health needs and incorporate ways to treat them at home.
General Small Mammal Care
It doesn’t matter if your pet is big or small—maintaining their health is an ongoing process lasting their whole life.
Our skilled veterinary team recognizes this need for continuous care and works to treat your small pets with the same care we provide larger companions. Just like with cats or dogs, we provide pocket pets with initial wellness exams, vaccination schedules, ongoing dental care, and specialized health regimens as necessary to keep these tiny pals in tip-top shape.
We also recommend that your pocket pet’s care continue at home. Once we’ve assessed your companion, we will educate you on symptoms to watch out for, effective feeding routines, and how to give your pet proper stimulation and exercise for a more content life with your family.
Specialized Small Mammal Care in Albany, NY
Sometimes, pocket pets may experience internal issues that need some extra care. These small animals can experience health issues such as digestive issues, heatstroke, and diabetes, all of which can be better managed by addressing the issue early on.
Our highly experienced veterinarians use ultrasounds to diagnose these internal issues non-invasively. This process requires little preparation and causes zero pain or discomfort in pocket pets, ensuring we can assess their health safely. Once we pinpoint your pet’s internal issue, we will begin developing a specialized treatment plan to address it.
We also support your small mammals’ diet needs. Thanks to our online pharmacy, you can conveniently order Hills and Purina Pro Plan prescription food directly from our website and have it shipped right to your door. We also feature a wide selection of medications and supplies specifically for pocket pets.
Book Your Small Mammal Care Visit in Albany, NY
When you’re looking for in-depth care and total dedication for your pocket pet’s health, schedule an appointment at Sand Creek Animal Hospital. Our skilled team of specialists is committed to supporting every facet of your small mammal’s well-being for a long, healthy life. Call us today at (838) 900-7992 or book an appointment online.
