Keys to caring for exotic animals at home
When returning from vacation it is usual to arrive with a new member in the family. It is very common for children to fall in love with some exotic pet that they have met during the trip on vacation and now you have to know how to take care of it at home.
These exotic animals, which include guinea pigs, dwarf rabbits, ferrets, reptiles and birds, are not domestic like dogs or cats, but can become an adorable pet for the whole family.
Guidelines for caring for exotic animals at home
Do you want to know how to properly care for your exotic animal? The Official College of Veterinarians of Barcelona offers the following guidelines to know the peculiarities of each type of animal, its characteristics and the care they need when they live at home with children. This way you can guarantee your well-being.
Small mammals: ferrets, guinea pigs or dwarf rabbits
These small size pets have become the favorite of families who do not have much space at home.
Location. Small mammals need spacious cages with accessories such as toys and gnawing materials in the case of rabbits, and soft earth so they can dig, in the case of ferrets. It is necessary to place the cages away from the air currents, maintain a warm ambient temperature and clean them every week. In the summer months, placing a bottle of frozen water next to the cage helps keep pets cool.
Activity. It is best to remove these dwarf animals from the cage at least once a day so that they can stretch their legs and run a little. They are active and curious and, therefore, they can not be lost sight of in case they escape.
Feeding. In general, these small pets are herbivores and therefore need to eat forage and fresh vegetables every day, as well as having clean, fresh water to drink. You can also offer them feed and preparations that they sell in specialized stores for each type of animal.
Specific care. Visits to the veterinarian must be made at least once a year. It is necessary to rid him of parasites and give him the necessary vaccines. Rabbits should be vaccinated against myxomatosis, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes, and against viral hemorrhage, since both are high-risk diseases for these animals. Guinea pigs do not need vaccines. It is not mandatory that these exotic pets carry a microchip, but it is recommended.
Reptiles as pets at home
Among reptiles, iguanas and geckos are the most successful species. These pets allow their owners to enjoy activities such as the meticulous recreation of their habitat.
Location. The appropriate terrariums are essential for reptiles and should resemble their natural habitat, especially in terms of temperature and humidity. In summer, avoid putting the terrarium near the air conditioner since this can make the pet more inactive and eat less.
Feeding. It is convenient to think about it before choosing the reptile that we are going to bring home since some, like iguanas are hervibors, while others like geckos, are insectivores and it is more difficult to easily and regularly dispose of live foods.
Specific care Reptiles do not have to be vaccinated. But it is important to make an annual visit to the veterinarian of exotic animals to check that has no intestinal parasites.
Exotic birds as pets
Many exotic birds such as lovebirds, cockatoos, parakeets and parrots have been chosen as pets for their attractive colors, their singing or the ability to imitate sounds and words. In addition, its simple care and are easy to maintain.
Location. They need a cage adapted to their size. To prevent them from escaping when we are cleaning their cage, it is advisable to always have the house windows closed and visit the veterinarian to place a microchip. This will make it easier for our exotic bird in case of loss.
Feeding. Some exotic birds eat grain, other insects, etc ... but there are feeds formulated to cover all the needs of all species. It is important that you always have clean, fresh water in your drinker.
Specific care Most birds do not have to be vaccinated (except pigeons or canaries that live in groups), however it is necessary to deworm them periodically. Once a year they need to visit the vet.
Marisol Nuevo Espín
Advice: Official College of Veterinarians of Barcelona
