5 Key Points of Exotic Pet Care

You may not be a dog or cat person but luckily there is a world of pets out there including avian and exotic pets for those who like something a little different. Here, our Nashville vets talk about some of the different types of exotic pet and what you should consider before adding one to your family.

What are some common types of exotic pets?

You may be considering adding a new pet to your family but not quite sure of what you would like. Choosing a pet can be tough especially if you aren't looking for a cat or dog!

Humans are undoubtedly able to develop a special bond with these unique creatures. With diligent care from an attentive owner and regular visits to the vet, small exotic mammals can make great pets for owners willing, able and committed to providing the right environment, daily attention and nutrition.

Here, our exotic pet vets in Nashville offer some information about avian and exotic pets and some things to consider before you bring one home.

some of the commonly seen types of exotic pets are:

Are exotic pets recommended as pets?

Exotic pets aren't something to be taken lightly. Most exotic pets require specialized care on top of being potentially harmful to small children or responsive if mishandled.

You will need to take some time to research the pet you are considering as well as properly prepare for their care.

Well before buying, research the animal’s requirements regarding food, supplies, facilities and other aspects. Ensure you purchase from a reputable source.

Don’t forget to check your municipal, county and/or state laws, as some will require a permit or license depending on the exotic pet you want to purchase. Contact your local and state departments to determine whether you’ll need a permit for the animal, or if there are facility requirements or inspections.

Here are some key things to think about when getting an exotic pet.

Research the type of pet you want

This should be the first thing you do once you consider owning an exotic pet. Exotic pets typically require very special care when it comes to their diet and habitat. Not doing proper research could lead to disaster and potential harm to both you and your new pet.

Avoid impulse buying an exotic pet

Many exotic pets can be quite visually appealing, which makes it difficult to not say yes on the spot. But it is imperative to take the time to learn about them and to determine if they will be a good choice for you, your family, your home and your lifestyle.

Buy from a reputable business or breeder

While we like to think that all of the exotic animals we see are being ethically bred and sold, this is not always the case. Some businesses and animal sellers/breeders are only focused on making money and may unethically source the animal or capture it directly from the wild. Be sure to check the breeder's credentials, ask for references and even ask questions about their standards for breeding/acquiring the animals.

Ensure you provide adequate shelter

To live their healthiest life you will need to ensure that you provide appropriate shelter for your pet. This includes considerations for the amount of space they need, the type of habitat, how much daylight is needed and the heat and humidity. Each pet will be different and so doing an abundance of research can help you offer your pet the best possible shelter.

Provide your exotic pet with a diet suited to their nutritional needs

No matter the type of pet you choose, a proper diet will be one of the most important aspects of pet care. Exotic pets are no different. Each animal is different and will have nutritional needs that are specific to their species. The nutritional content will also vary depending on the age of the exotic pet. As you Nashville exotic vet if you have any questions about what you pet may require.

What kind of care does my exotic pet need?

Owners of exotic creatures should remember that because exotic pets are prey species in the wild, they often hide signs of illness instinctively until symptoms are quite advanced. Therefore, preventive veterinary care is critical to continued health.

Soon after you bring your exotic pet home for the first time, schedule a first visit with our exotic pet vets at Belle Forest Animal Hospital. We can provide specialized training in exotic animal care. They will also receive a first full physical examination.

Our exotic pet vets provide skilled veterinary care for small exotic mammals such as guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, and other pocket pets. We have the experience and training required to care for small mammals and can provide the information you need to ensure your small friend stays healthy and happy.

Whether your pet requires preventive care or your pet is sick and specific health concerns need to be addressed, we are here to help. Our staff is highly skilled at safely restraining pets without causing additional stress. We are equipped to provide you and your pet with a stress-free visit.

During a routine appointment, our exotic pet vets will perform a thorough physical exam and recommend preventive care appropriate to their circumstances. There will also be time to ask any questions you may have about your pet’s health.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.