Critical care of the small rodent: a veterinary nurse's guide
Wendy Brament
Monday, November 2, 2015
Small rodents are a popular pet choice, but their ability to conceal obvious signs of discomfort or illness, attributed to their ‘prey-like’ lifestyle, can make them challenging patients. Consequently they are regularly encountered by veterinary staff when clinical signs are apparent suggestive of chronic or advanced illnesses. Veterinary nurses are essential in the critical care of small rodent patients by appreciating correct husbandry, providing behavioural observations and administration of treatments, promoting patient welfare, minimising discomfort and preserving life where appropriate. This article aims to review the relevant characteristics of small rodents, identifying critically ill patients and nursing initiatives that can facilitate their hospitalisation, treatment and recovery.
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