Wellness exams are important for your exotic pets because their care needs are quite different from other animals. Many exotic pets are sensitive to temperature, light, and living conditions and require environments that take these needs into consideration.

This is why veterinarians who are qualified in treating exotics are essential; they can closely monitor your pet’s health and determine if they are getting the proper care and nutrition for a good life. Here is a list of six important reasons that a routine check-up is just what the doctor ordered for your special family member.

1. Preventative Care

General care practices for an exotic pet are essential to their well-being. Some species need to visit the vet on regular basis to make sure their health is maintained. We can talk with you about issues that are common with your pet to help prevent disease and identify certain conditions.

Pets also need to be checked for parasites. Various birds can get intestinal parasites that can be transferred to humans. Nail trims are necessary too, and these can be tricky when it comes to managing guinea pigs, birds, and lizards. Professional help will make this task much easier and avoid injuring an animal.

2. Diet and Nutrition Needs

A proper and nutritious diet is vital to the health of your exotic pet. Dietary needs for pets can change over the years. It might be necessary to adapt foods and feeding schedules as your pet ages or if they become intolerant of eating various items. This can cause serious issues when you adjust their diet, especially without knowing why they are exhibiting a change in eating habits.

Exotics are very sensitive to nutritional deficiencies, so they need professional attention to live well. Pet foods should be discussed with your vet because some offerings on the market your animal cannot tolerate or digest well.

3. Behavior Issues

It is difficult to recognize behavioral changes with exotics. You need to understand the reasons for abnormal behaviors, so you know if it is just a quirky action or a sign of illness. We will discuss with you the instinctual and environmental reasons a pet acts the way it does and inform you about signs to be aware of that indicate your pet is ill or under stress.

4. Vaccination Requirements

Some exotic species require vaccinations to keep them healthy. In the United States, potbellied pigs, ferrets, and fennec foxes are allowed as pets. These animals need yearly shots to keep them disease-free. Other species also need to receive vaccines as part of their wellness exams.

It is important to check with your veterinarian whether your pet is required by law to be vaccinated. In some states, this is mandatory to stop the spread of rabies and other serious diseases between animal species and humans.

5. Emergency Visits

When your pet gets ill, there is no time to waste. Many exotics have a rapid metabolism, so if they go without food for more than a day, they become quite sick. It is crucial to seek emergency help when your pet is in visible distress. Make sure you understand after-hours treatment protocol, and what your pet hospital can provide in terms of diagnostic testing and care when you arrive.

6. Boarding Plans

A vacation boarding plan is something all pet owners should address. Some exotics cannot be boarded but need a trusted pet sitter or friend to provide care. These individuals should be well informed about care routines and have access to an emergency plan, which includes how to transport safely.

We Are Your Team for Exotic Pet Treatment

At Pet Hospitals of Hawaii, we provide wellness exams, professional advice, and a full range of the latest treatment options for your exotic pet. We care for your pet as if it is our very own. Schedule an appointment today to get your exotic the quality of care it deserves.