We are pleased to provide comprehensive care for our rabbit, guinea pig, and chinchilla patients. Pet owners are supported by our team at Veterinary Medical Associates as well, with information, guidance, and pet care resources. Contact our hospital for help in choosing the right small pet for your lifestyle and appropriate housing, accessories, nutrition, and more.
Rabbit Care
Rabbits are curious, mischievous pets that can get themselves in trouble if left alone. For safety, always keep your pet in a rabbit-safe environment if you are not immediately available to intervene. Rabbits love to chew, so keep plants and electrical cords out of reach and protect curtains, rugs, and furniture.
While rabbits are easily trained to use a litter box, it is essential to provide a secure cage or habitat. We recommend a large crate or cage with a solid floor that allows for stretching out, standing on hind legs, or active play. The habitat should include an area for burrowing in hay, a litter box, and a box or tunnel for privacy. Provide a continuous supply of Timothy hay and fresh, clean water.
Guinea Pig Care
Guinea pigs are curious little pets that enjoy interaction and play. Regular human attention will socialize your companion and exercise is essential for good health. Always supervise your guinea pigs when they are outside the cage, as they enjoy chewing and hiding in dark, tight places. They are most active at dawn and dusk, and may nap periodically throughout the day.
Guinea pigs require a well-ventilated, solid bottomed, and spacious cage with room to jump, play, and explore. Choose a safe environment and accessories that encourage natural playing behaviors. The cage should have two sources of fresh water, Timothy hay, bedding, and a box or tunnel for privacy.
Chinchilla Care
Chinchillas are intelligent, playful, and social pets that bond quickly with humans. Take your pet out to play often but always maintain a safe cage or habitat for unsupervised time. Chinchillas love to chew, so keep plants and electrical cords out of reach and protect curtains, rugs, and furniture.
This pet requires a well-ventilated, spacious cage with room to jump, play, and explore. Place the cage centrally for easy interaction and observation, but away from drafts or direct sunlight. Provide two sources of fresh water, grass hay, bedding, and a box or tunnel for privacy. Never use cedar or pine shavings, as they can irritate your chinchilla’s skin and lungs.
It is also important to provide them with a powder mineral source for bathing. In their native environment, chinchillas enjoy these dust baths to maintain their fur—never bathe this pet in water!
Contact us today to learn how we can help care for your pocket pets!