Exotic 250

Exotic Mammal Care in Charleston, SC

Exotic mammals are enjoyable to watch and can make for fun companions. However, their small size does not mean they don’t need plenty of care throughout their lives to stay healthy. Similar to other animals, exotic mammals can develop all manner of diseases, and they have many specific needs to ensure good health and a good quality of life, including an appropriate diet, a suitable habitat, and in some cases, a companion or two of the same species.

A variety of animals fall under the “exotic mammal” category, with some of the most common being:

  • Rats, hamsters, squirrels, gerbils, and mice
  • African Pygmy hedgehogs and sugar gliders
  • New World primates, marmosets, lemurs, coati mundi, sloths, kinkajous, and pygmy goats
  • Raccoons, opossums, skunks and other "pet" wildlife
  • Savannah cats, servals, bobcats, and other cats

If you have an exotic mammal in your care, be sure to schedule their routine checkup with us. Book now!

Wellness Care for Exotic Mammals

Wellness Care for Exotic Mammals

We recommend the following wellness services for exotic mammals in order for them to stay healthy:

  • Post-purchase exam – Includes physical exam, fecal analysis, microchipping, and scheduling spay/neuter
  • 6-month exam – Physical exam and fecal analysis
  • Annual exam – Physical exam, fecal analysis, and CBC/chemistries
  • Senior exam – Physical exam, fecal analysis, CBC/chemistries, radiographs, and ultrasound
Sugar Glider Climbing
Signs of a Health Emergency in Exotic Mammals

Signs of a Health Emergency in Exotic Mammals

Rat Pack

Exotic mammals will hide any signs of illness or pain on instinct, so it isn’t always easy to notice when they’re not feeling well. A decrease in appetite or complete lack of appetite is usually the most common sign, and can lead to other health issues if not addressed quickly.

If you notice any of the symptoms listed below, call our hospital right away at (843) 216-8387.

  • Lack of appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Fewer stools
  • Depression
  • Painful when handled or touched
  • Weakness
  • Falling over
  • Head tilted
  • Hunched posture
  • Matted/unkempt coat
  • Fecal/urine staining of fur
Common Diseases and Conditions

Common Diseases and Conditions

Exotic mammals can suffer from various diseases just like any other animal. The most common conditions they experience include:

  • Dental disease
  • Reproductive disease
  • Malnutrition
  • Respiratory disease
  • Obesity
Handouts to Help You Care for Your Exotic Mammal

Handouts to Help You Care for Your Exotic Mammal

Below are some educational handouts containing essential information to help you care for your exotic mammal. Most of all, if you have any questions or concerns, please call our hospital at (843) 216-8387.