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Explore expert articles on small mammals with Vet Verified.
Some hamster species can hibernate or enter torpor, and cold can trigger torpor, which carries a serious risk of hypothermia. A cold, limp hamster needs a vet straight away. This guide covers room temperature, cage position, nesting and signs to watch for.
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Rabbit teeth grow throughout life, and dental pain can be easy to miss. Learn the warning signs, what causes overgrowth and when to contact a vet.
House rabbits in the UK still need vaccines, even if they never go outside. Myxomatosis and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease, including RHD1 and RHD2, can be brought in by insects, shoes, clothes, hay and other pets. The RWAF advises two vaccinations each year, given at separate visits at least two weeks apart. Your rabbit-savvy vet can advise on the right dates. Screens, clean shoes, safe flea treatment for other pets and careful handling of new rabbits can lower risk, but they do not replace vaccination. Watch your rabbit after a vaccine and call a vet if they stop eating or seem suddenly unwell.
The Giant Chinchilla is a large, calm rabbit with a soft silver-grey coat. It usually weighs 5.5 to 6.8 kg and can live for 5 to 7 years. It needs lots of safe space, daily play, unlimited hay, fresh greens and regular grooming. Soft flooring is important to help prevent sore feet. These rabbits need gentle handling, regular vet care and a rabbit friend where possible. They suit experienced owners with enough room, time and money to care for a giant rabbit.
Senior guinea pigs, usually aged four to five and over, may need extra help as they slow down or develop health problems. Regular vet checks, weight monitoring, good dental care, constant fresh hay and enough vitamin C can help spot and manage issues early. Soft bedding, easy access to food and water, gentle grooming, calm routines and time with bonded companions can also keep older guinea pigs comfortable, active and happy.
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Mobility problems can make it hard for guinea pigs to walk, eat, groom and enjoy time with other guinea pigs. They may be caused by arthritis, injury, low vitamin C, extra weight, sore feet or illnesses affecting the nerves. Watch for stiffness, limping, dragging legs, less movement, poor grooming or trouble reaching food and water. A vet should check any movement problem, especially sudden weakness, severe pain or refusal to eat. At home, soft bedding, non-slip floors, easy-to-reach food and water, gentle grooming and a clean one-level enclosure can help keep your guinea pig comfortable.
Rex mice are fancy mice with curly fur and whiskers. They are active, social pets that need safe housing, daily coat checks, a balanced diet and gentle handling. Females can live in small groups, while males usually need separate homes. Their curly coats can catch dirt, so clean bedding and regular health checks matter. Rex mice suit people who like watching and caring for small, quick animals, but they are not ideal for very young children or people wanting a cuddly pet.
Guinea pig boarding facilities and home visits can both provide safe holiday care, but the right option depends on your guinea pigs’ health, temperament and daily routine. Boarding may suit guinea pigs that need medication, close checks or skilled care, while home visits often help nervous guinea pigs stay calm in their familiar enclosure. Keep bonded guinea pigs together, give clear feeding and vet details, and choose a carer who understands hay, vegetables, vitamin C and signs of illness.
Learn why sawdust, cedar and some pine wood shavings may be unsafe guinea pig bedding. Fine dust and aromatic oils can irritate guinea pigs’ lungs, eyes and skin, and may lead to breathing problems. Find safer low-dust bedding options, including paper bedding, fleece liners, hemp and cardboard pellets, plus cleaning advice and signs of bedding irritation.
Rabbit boarding vs home visits: learn which holiday care option suits your rabbit. Compare supervision, stress, travel, health needs and bonded pairs, plus key questions to ask and signs of illness to watch for while you are away.
Learn why sawdust, cedar shavings and some pine shavings are not safe rabbit bedding. Fine dust and aromatic oils can irritate a rabbit’s eyes, skin and lungs, while damp bedding can lead to ammonia smells and poor hygiene. Safer rabbit bedding options include low-dust paper bedding, hay, straw, hemp bedding, cardboard pellets and washable fleece liners. Choose bedding that is soft, non-toxic, absorbent and easy to clean, then remove soiled areas each day to keep your rabbit’s home clean and comfortable.
Planning a holiday with guinea pigs? Never leave them alone for long. Guinea pigs need daily hay, fresh water, veg, cage cleaning, social time and health checks. Ask a trusted friend or neighbour, hire a professional pet sitter, or use a small animal boarding service. Keep bonded guinea pigs together and leave plenty of hay, pellets, veg, bedding, water and any medication. Write clear care notes with feeding amounts, cleaning routines, vet contacts and emergency details. Remind carers that guinea pigs need vitamin C every day and watch for signs of stress or illness such as hiding, loss of appetite, teeth chattering or weight loss. Avoid big changes before travel and check your pets are well with a vet if needed. Book sitters or boarding early during busy holidays to get good care.
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