The display of reproductive behaviors in captivity can lead to a variety of behavioral and potentially life-threatening medical problems in pet birds, including aggression toward human flock members, excessive egg laying, and egg binding/impaction. The following guidelines will assist in deterring reproductive behaviors in pet birds.     ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES:...

Chinchillas are native to the Andes mountains in South America (Bolivia, Chile*, Argentina, and Peru). They live in colonies called “herds” and at very high elevations requiring them to have some of the densest fur of all land mammals. Chinchillas are some of the longest-lived exotic mammals if cared for...

HOUSING: Cage – We recommend using a wire bar style cage with appropriately sized bars so the hamster cannot escape. It should be a minimum of 1 foot wide by 3 foot in length.  The cage bottom should be solid, as screen mesh/wire floor can irritate the feet and cause...

HOUSING: Cage – Minimum size of 2×4 feet. Additional space is necessary when keeping multiple ferrets together. Many cages have several levels to provide more surface area to climb and play. Litterbox – A litter box should be provided in one corner of the cage. Use low dust litter, such...

Guinea Pig Husbandry and Preventative Healthcare HOUSING: Cage – Minimum of 2×4 feet for each guinea pig. Cage bottom should be solid Plexi-glass, hard plastic, or stainless steel. Wire mesh bottoms should NEVER be used for guinea pigs due to the risk of feet becoming trapped and subsequent injury. Cages...

HOUSING: Cage:Your hedgehog’s cage should be at least 2 feet wide by 3 feet long. A plastic bottom cage with narrow wire sides or 35+ gallon clear rubber maid-type container with ventilation holes drilled in the sides, may also be used. A hiding place should be provided; large diameter PVC...

General Information: Sugar Gliders are small marsupials native to Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea.  The female glider, along with other marsupials, carry their babies, called joeys, in a pouch on the abdomen.  Female gliders are pregnant for a total of 16 days before giving birth.  Joeys are weaned at about...

HOUSING: Cage – Minimum of 2×3 feet for small breeds and 3×4 feet for large breeds. Cage bottom should be SOLID plexi-glass, hard plastic, or stainless steel. If the cage has a wire mesh bottom, cover half with a solid surface to prevent pressure sores on the feet. Some people...

INTRODUCTION: Rats are highly social and intelligent animals that can make excellent pets. Lifespan averages 2-3 years, although this may be shortened by severe respiratory infections and/or mammary tumors.   HOUSING: Cage – Minimum of a 1’ x 3’ enclosure with a secure top for each pet. Cage bottom should...

INTRODUCTION: Rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas have incisors and cheek teeth (premolars and molars) to assist in the task of apprehending and chewing food. The teeth are open-rooted, which means they grow continuously throughout the animal’s life. When the teeth are aligned properly, eating fibrous foods (i.e. timothy/orchard grass hay)...