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Rabbits can become infested with fleas, especially if they go outside or live in a house with other pets that have fleas. Rabbits with fleas may show no signs or may bite, lick, or scratch themselves. Young rabbits with heavy infestations may become anemic. There are no rabbit-specific drugs for managing fleas. Certain topical anti-parasite medications appear to be safe but should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian familiar with rabbits.
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Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used off label in cats, dogs, and small mammals to treat fungal infections, especially those in the brain and spinal cord. It is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid suspension and is also available as an injection for hospital use. It should be used with caution in pets with liver or kidney disease, or pregnant or lactating pets.
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Fludrocortisone acetate is given by mouth and is used off label to treat hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease) and hyperkalemia. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in lactating pets without using a milk replacer. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Fluralaner is given by mouth or applied topically and is used to treat flea and tick infestations, and also off-label to treat certain types of mange and mites. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset or neurologic symptoms. Do not use in pets with a history of seizures. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.
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Furosemide is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label to treat many conditions, including congestive heart failure and fluid retention. Common side effects include increased urination, diarrhea, or constipation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in those that are unable to make urine.
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Ferrets can be affected by a variety of conditions causing problems with the stomach and intestinal tract. Certain bacteria may cause diarrhea or gastritis. Intestinal foreign bodies often cause a complete blockage of the intestinal tract. Some conditions may be treated with medication while others require surgical intervention.
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Rabbits and Guinea pigs that are not eating may have developed gastrointestinal (GI) stasis. GI stasis is typically caused by a physiologic change in bacteria. Rabbits and guinea pigs may stop eating because they are sick with other diseases, such as dental problems or kidney disease, or when they are stressed, overheated, painful from injuries or arthritis, or uncomfortable from other gastrointestinal problems such as bacterial, viral, or parasitic intestinal infections. Some rabbits and guinea pigs get GI upset when they are eating too much carbohydrate and not enough fiber. Supportive care treatment either in or out of the hospital will be prescribed for a rabbit with GI stasis. Prevent GI stasis by feeding your pet a high-fiber, hay-based diet with supplemental vegetables, a small amount of pellets and fruit. Have your pet checked regularly by a veterinarian who can monitor for the occurrence of other underlying diseases that may contribute to the development of GI stasis.
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There are multiple methods of inheritance that determine which characteristics (or phenotypes) are displayed by the offspring, including autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, and sex-linked inheritance. There are also many polygenic traits (i.e., associated with multiple genes) as well as environmental factors that make it much more complicated to predict disease or the likelihood of passing disease onto offspring.
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Medicating or giving oral liquids to small mammals requires some basic guidance. Syringe-feeding rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small rodents may require you to wrap your pet in a "burrito". Knowing the proper location in the mouth to introduce the syringe will be essential to success. Having the right size syringes and the right amount of liquid for your pet is very important.
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Griseofulvin is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat skin, hair, and nail fungal infections. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, pregnant pets, breeding males, pets that have severe liver disease, or in cats with FIV or FeLV. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.