Exotic Mammals We See
A variety of animals fall under the “exotic mammal” category, with some of the most common being:
- Rats, hamsters, squirrels, gerbils, chinchillas, and mice
- African Pygmy hedgehogs and sugar gliders
- New World primates, marmosets, lemurs, coati mundi, sloths, kinkajous, miniature pigs, 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!
What to Expect at Your Exotic Mammal or Pocket Pet's Wellness Visit
The treatments and services below are what you can expect when you bring your exotic mammal or pocket pet in for their routine wellness visit.
- New pet exam – Physical exam, fecal analysis, discuss and schedule spay/neuter as recommended
- 6 Month exam – Physical exam, fecal analysis
- Annual exam – Physical exam, fecal analysis, CBC/Blood Chemistry Panel
- Senior exam – Just like the annual exam, and we also recommend imaging (radiographs, ultrasound or CT) to screen for internal disease
Common Diseases & Conditions in Exotic Mammals and Pocket Pets
Exotic mammals and pocket pets 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
Chinchilla Care
Chinchillas are welcome as patients at our clinic. We are happy to provide a lifetime of care that includes:
- Routine health checkups
- Bloodwork
- Fecal exams
- Spay and Neuter
- Dental treatments
If you have questions about your chinchilla or need to book now, call (843) 216-8387.

Signs of a Health Emergency in Exotic Mammals and Pocket Pets
While some cases require urgent treatment, most after-hours concerns are best evaluated by our experienced team. Rather than going to an emergency clinic, the best thing for you and your pet is to come see our specialists at our next available appointment. If no appointments are available, we offer Emergency Admission Mon-Saturday beginning at 8am.
Signs Your Exotic Mammal or Pocket Pet May Need Urgent Care
- 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
Signs Your Exotic Mammal or Pocket Pet May Need Emergency Veterinary Care
- Diarrhea consistently for 24+ hours
- Heavy, labored breathing
- Not walking or standing
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- Unconsciousness

Need to Board Your Exotic Mammal or Pocket Pet While You’re Away?
Your pet is in the best hands at our exotic pet boarding facility, where our experienced staff caters to their individual needs and offers them all the comforts of home. Birds, reptiles, pocket pets, and other exotics require a lot of time and attention that most pet sitters and boarding facilities cannot provide.
Handouts to Help You Care for Your Exotic Mammal or Pocket Pet
Below are some educational handouts containing essential information to help you care for your exotic mammal or pocket pet. Most of all, if you have any questions or concerns, please call our hospital at (843) 216-8387.
Chinchilla Care
Gerbil Care
Hamster Care
Hedgehog Care
Rat Care
Sugar Glider Care