Small mammals are susceptible to many gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including those caused by inflammatory diseases, nutritional deficiencies, parasites, and bacterial and viral infections. GI disorders can cause abdominal discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss in small mammals. It’s important to recognize the signs of digestive distress and diagnose the underlying cause in order to treat it effectively.
Symptoms of Small Mammal Digestive Disorders
Symptoms of digestive disorders can vary but generally include:
- Abdominal discomfort
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Changes in appetite
Other signs of digestive disorders can include a change in the color or consistency of their stool, an increase in flatulence, constipation or straining to defecate. In some cases there could also be signs of dehydration such as dry mouth.
Diagnosing Small Mammal Digestive Disorders
Diagnosing digestive disorders is important in order to treat the underlying cause. Diagnostic tests used to identify the cause of a GI disorder can include physical exams, blood tests, fecal exams, and x-rays. A physical examination will help your veterinarian look for signs of discomfort or pain, as well as assess their body condition. Blood tests can detect inflammation and nutritional deficiencies that could be causing the disorder. A fecal exam can help identify parasites, and x-rays can be used to look for foreign bodies or obstruction in their GI tract.
Stages of Small Mammal Digestive Disorders
The stages of digestive disorders vary depending on the underlying cause, but there are generally three phases: acute, chronic and recovery.
Stage 1
The acute phase is associated with the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. During this phase, medical intervention is often necessary to stabilize the patient and reduce symptoms.
Stage 2
The chronic phase occurs when the disorder has been ongoing for an extended period of time and is associated with signs such as weight loss, poor appetite, and changes in stool quality.
Stage 3
The recovery phase is when the patient begins to respond to treatment and their symptoms improve.
Treating Small Mammal Digestive Disorders
Treating digestive disorders will depend on the underlying cause and could include dietary adjustments, medications, supplements or surgery. Dietary adjustments should be made under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure that your pet is still receiving all of the essential nutrients they need. Medications can be prescribed to treat infections, reduce inflammation or control symptoms. Supplements might also be recommended to aid with digestion and absorption of nutrients.
It’s important to get veterinary care if your pet has signs of digestive disorders in order to ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Preventing Small Mammal Digestive Disorders
Preventing digestive disorders can be easier by feeding a balanced diet and making sure your pet has access to clean, fresh water. It’s also important to practice good sanitation and hygiene to reduce the risk of infection or infestation. Use caution when introducing new foods or treats because sudden dietary changes can cause digestive disorders. Regular veterinary exams are also important for early detection and prevention of GI disorders.