Small and furry pets (rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters mice, etc) require particular care in order to remain happy and healthy. A knowledge of the species and breed is very important. Below are some daily and weekly tips for maintaining a disease-free, healthy environment for you little pet.
Daily cleaning : As you clean, it is important to look for any signs that your small pet may be ill. Also, watch for hazardous conditions in the cage, and remove or correct them. Observe:
- Has the normal amount of food been eaten?
- Is the temperature of the cage within the proper limits?
- Are the faeces and urine normal in appearance and quantity?
- Is there any evidence of parasites?
- Do any of the accessories appear frayed or need to be replaced?
- Is the cage in good repair?
- Daily, remove uneaten food, wipe up water spills and remove wet spots or waste in bedding and litter. If necessary, change any bedding or litter that is too soiled.
Routine weekly cleaning : Once a week, or as often as needed, relocate your small pet to a clean cage, then:
- Remove all decorations in the cage.
- Clean, rinse, and disinfect water bowls (or bottles) and food bowls, as above.
- Bag and discard disposable bedding and litter.
- Clean all cage surfaces with soap and hot water, and rinse well.
- Loosen tough spots with a toothbrush, or putty knife.
- Wash and disinfect any cage accessories, such as climbing shelves, dens, or beds, per the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for each product. Rinse thoroughly and dry well.
- After washing and rinsing the cage and accessories, use a disinfectant. Be sure to rinse the cage and accessories with hot water until all residues are removed.
- Allow the cage and accessories to dry thoroughly before reassembling to reduce the possibility of mould.
- Provide the appropriate amount of bedding and litter. Re-install accessories.
- Be sure to thoroughly clean and disinfect all equipment, sponges, buckets, gloves, and sinks.
- Lastly, wash your hands with hot, soapy water.
Disinfectants
- The disinfectant must be strong enough to kill disease-causing viruses, bacteria, and fungi, yet not cause harm to the pet.
- The most readily available disinfectant for cleaning a cage is household bleach.
- Use bleach at a dilution of approximately 1 part bleach to 32 parts water
- Allow the disinfectant to have contact with the material for 10 minutes
- Rinse the items, especially any wooden items, thoroughly with clean water to remove all the disinfectant
- Allow the cage and all items to dry thoroughly before reassembling and placing your small pet back into the cage.
Call us on 091 844918 with any queries about your small and furry pets.
Ann-Marie Maguire R.V.N, Kelly Veterinary Clinic,Old Church St.
