Blog

When it comes to owning and providing for any species, there’s usually a learning curve. It takes time to figure out exactly what a pet needs, and practice is essential to gaining confidence and mastery. Exotic pet care requires such careful attention to environment, diet, and safety that dental care may not come into focus until much later. Together, we can ensure that dental care for exotic pets is a top priority for long-lasting health and vitality. 

A Yearly Exam

Many possible health problems can be avoided by establishing and maintaining annual veterinary exams. As part of their regular check-up, we can determine the health of an exotic pet’s teeth and gums. We can assess the presence of any plaque and tartar build-up, look for signs of infection, and inspect the teeth for abnormal wear patterns, fractures, cracks, and strength. 

The Big Bite of Small Mammals

We commonly see guinea pigs, chinchillas, rats, mice, gerbils, and rabbits for all sorts of reasons, but routinely for issues related to their teeth. With open-rooted structures, the teeth of these pocket pets continue to continuously grow. 

The diets of these animals can wear the teeth down, but because of the widespread use of pellets and soft vegetables in captivity, uneven wear patterns can develop. Without fibrous grasses and hard-to-chew shrubs, these pets may develop sharp points on the surface of the teeth, leading to cuts on the lips, mouth, and tongue. Consequently, inflammation, infection, and abscesses can lead to unnecessary pain and suffering. 

We can file down any high points on the teeth and even trim the teeth, if needed. This is commonly done while an exotic or pocket pet is under anesthesia. Loose or broken teeth can also be extracted at the same time.

Ferret Fangs

Whether they decide to chew on stones or part of their enclosure, ferrets commonly break their canine teeth, or fangs. This exposes the pulp cavity inside the teeth, potentially leading to a painful root infection. We can cap these fractured teeth under general anesthesia, and while they’re under, we can remove any tartar build-up as well. 

Lizard Dental Care

Exotic pets like bearded dragons have acrodont dentition, meaning their teeth grow right out of the jaw bone. Because the teeth aren’t inside protective tooth sockets, gingivitis (caused by plaque and tartar) can ultimately lead to infection. 

Like all other pets, lizards should have their teeth scaled and cleaned while under general anesthesia. At their annual wellness exam, we can determine the state of their teeth and make recommendations from there.

Exotic Pet Dental

Our staff can assist owners of all exotic pets understand the importance of routine care at home during every annual exam. Regular dental cleanings are a vital part of exotic pet ownership, and we are here to help you with any questions or concerns. 

Please call Ten West Bird and Animal Hospital at (210) 696-1700 to get started on a routine that promotes excellent dental care and lifelong exotic pet health.