Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and other small furries need veterinary care too!

Whether it is a vaccination, neutering, or a general health check, we are always happy to see our smaller patients at Croi na Mara Vets.

Rabbit Care

Rabbits are wonderful pets, but they have very specific needs that are quite different to dogs and cats. One of the most common problems we see in rabbits is dental disease, caused by a diet that does not contain enough fibre. A rabbit's teeth grow continuously throughout their life, and they need a high-fibre diet (mostly hay) to keep their teeth worn down properly.

Rabbits should be vaccinated against myxomatosis and rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD), both of which are common in Ireland and can be fatal. We recommend annual vaccination for all rabbits, whether they live indoors or outdoors.

Neutering is also recommended for rabbits, especially if you have more than one. Unneutered rabbits can become aggressive and territorial, and of course they breed very quickly.

Guinea Pig Care

Guinea pigs are social animals and do best in pairs or small groups. They have specific dietary needs, including a daily source of vitamin C (guinea pigs, like humans, cannot make their own). Fresh vegetables, good quality hay, and a small amount of guinea pig pellets make up the ideal diet.

Common health issues in guinea pigs include dental problems, skin parasites, respiratory infections, and bladder stones. Regular health checks can help catch these early.

Hamster and Other Small Pet Care

Hamsters, gerbils, rats, and mice may be small, but they can still benefit from veterinary care. Common issues include dental problems, skin conditions, respiratory infections, and tumours (particularly in older rats).

If your small pet is showing signs of illness, such as changes in appetite, lethargy, weight loss, or discharge from the eyes or nose, it is worth bringing them in for a check-up.

What to Watch For

Small pets can deteriorate quickly when they are unwell, so it is important to act fast if you notice anything unusual. Signs that your small pet needs veterinary attention include:

At our Briarhill and Oranmore clinics, we provide the same friendly, professional care for small pets as we do for dogs and cats.

If you have any questions about looking after your furry friend, or if your small pet is showing signs of illness, please get in touch with our Galway vet team.