Fur Biting in Chinchillas

Chinchillas can make wonderful pets. They are fun, friendly, and cute. However, they are also known to display unwanted behavior. 

Initially thought of as anti-social behavior, one habit often demonstrated by chinchillas is fur biting. However, experts contend that several reasons cause fur biting. First, chinchillas need to be encouraged. The lack of stimulation, whether mentally or physically, is a possible trigger. Second, chinchillas bite their furs either because they are bored or are in conflict with cage mates. Third, chinchillas also experience stress, and fur biting is their way to cope with stressful situations. Lastly, underlying health issues may also result in the display of such a habit.

Frequent fur biting can make a chinchilla look shabby and unkempt. Like other behavior habits displayed by chinchillas, fur biting needs appropriate intervention. Identification and understanding of the triggers to such kind of behavior are necessary so pet owners could adequately address them. 

If you have concerns about your pet’s health and/or behavior, consult your veterinarian Fox Lake, IL.

Ear Trauma In Chinchillas

Chinchillas have very delicate ears that is why they are prone to ear injuries brought about by fighting with other animals or being exposed to weather extremes (extremely hot or cold). Deep cuts or wounds should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian because it can easily pave the way for infection caused by bacteria or virus. Pet owners should suspect ear trauma when the ear is red and swollen and there are deep cuts or bite marks present. The affected ear may also be excreting some fluid discharge. When chinchillas are exposed to extreme temperatures, you may see a line that separates the normal tissue from the damaged part. The ears may appear black or discolored and skin may slough off. After a complete examination and determining the cause of the injury, your veterinarian may apply antiseptic solutions and an antibiotic ointment on the wound. Dressing will prevent infection and help promote healing. A severely damaged ear may have to be removed, depending on the assessment of your veterinarians Fox Lake, IL. 

Your dog’s love of routine

Your dog is a creature of habit and you can’t help but notice how much he craves a regular routine. Why is this?

Your pet is unable to control a lot of aspects of his life and this can sometimes be a bit frustrating for him. Having a regular routine in place can help your pet understand what’s happening throughout the day so he can prepare for what’s coming up next. This helps him relax a bit because he will have a sense of what’s just around the corner and he will know that his needs will be met in a reasonable amount of time. This can also help him have things to look forward to throughout the day as he will be able to follow a sense of rhythm. Your local veterinarian Fox Lake, IL can offer additional suggestions.

Teaching your feathery friend the ‘step up’ command

Your bird is a wonderful companion and it’s important to you that she is able to interact with you in a meaningful way. You feel that training would help with this and the ‘step up’ command is where you would like to start. How can you teach your pet what this means?

Your pet needs you to understand that training is likely foreign to her and will take a little while to get the hang of. To help her, state the command when she naturally steps onto you from her perch or back onto something placed in front of her from your body. In time, she will grow to expect these words when she performs this action and will think of the two as going hand in hand. This will allow you to say the words and have the actions be brought to mind. For additional information, please contact your local vet Fox Lake, IL.