Wet Tail is a serious, contagious and potentially fatal disease that can affect small mammals, like guinea pigs, hamsters, mice and rats. It’s caused by an infection of the bacteria Lawsonia intracellularis which can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration in affected animals.
Wet tail is a serious and potentially fatal disease that can affect small mammals. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of this condition in order to get your pet prompt treatment. By following proper hygiene protocols, like cleaning their cages regularly and giving them fresh food and water, you can help stop the spread of this dangerous condition.
Symptoms of Small Mammal Wet Tail
The symptoms of Wet Tail vary dependingIn more severe cases, your pet can also develop sores or patches around their eyes, mouth and anus. If your pet has any of these signs, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. on the type and severity of the infection, but some common signs to watch for include:
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
- Appetite loss
- Dehydration
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
In more severe cases, your pet can also develop sores or patches around their eyes, mouth and anus. If your pet has any of these signs, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Diagnosing Small Mammal Wet Tail
In order to diagnose Wet Tail, a veterinarian will typically conduct a physical examination and take a feces sample. The feces sample can help confirm the presence of bacteria causing the infection. In some cases, additional tests may be recommended such as blood tests or imaging studies in order to rule out other potential causes.
Stages of Small Mammal Wet Tail
The stages of Wet Tail can range from mild to severe.
Stage 1
In the early stages, affected animals may have:
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
- Appetite loss
- Dehydration
- Lethargy
Stage 2
As the condition progresses, more serious symptoms such as:
- Weight loss
- Sores or patches around the eyes
- Mouth and anus may appear
It’s important to get veterinary care as soon as possible if your pet has any of these symptoms.
Treating Small Mammal Wet Tail
Treating Wet Tail typically involves antibiotics in order to kill the bacteria that’s causing the infection. Fluids and electrolytes can be given to help reduce dehydration and replace lost minerals. In more severe cases, nutrition supplements like vitamins, minerals and amino acids might be necessary. It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully in order to ensure that your pet receives the best treatment.
Preventing Small Mammal Wet Tail
The best way to prevent Wet Tail is by practicing good hygiene and giving your pet fresh food and water. Make sure to clean their cages regularly, and take your pet to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. It’s important to quarantine any new animals that come into contact with your pet in order to help reduce the risk of spreading any infections.