wk 7: exotics nutrition

1. What categories should be covered when obtaining a nutrition history for an exotic animal patient?

• Medical issues

• Medications

• Current diet (type, frequency, amount)

• Husbandry factors – environment, substrate, enrichment, and behavior

• Owner observations (feeding habits, appetite, changes

What strategies can veterinary technicians use to obtain factual information about pet feeding from owners?

Ask open-ended, nonjudgmental questions; encourage honesty

Why should husbandry factors be evaluated?

They affect stress, appetite, and digestion

what are the essential components of a physical exam for exotic species?

Weight, body condition score, and palpation

How do palpation methods differ among mammals, birds, and reptiles?

Mammals—soft tissue; Birds—keel check; Reptiles—gentle coelomic palpation

Why is life expectancy an important consideration when formulating a nutrition plan for exotics?

It guides long-term diet and disease prevention

Why is water considered essential for all species?

It supports all metabolic and body functions

What are some risks of using water supplements?

They can reduce drinking and cause contamination

What are potential consequences of protein deficiency and protein excess in exotic animals?

Deficiency causes poor growth; excess causes gout and kidney stress

Why does excessive protein intake lead to gout and kidney stress?

Excess uric acid buildup strains kidneys

Which vitamins and minerals are particularly important for guinea pigs, and why?

Vitamin C—guinea pigs can’t synthesize it

Which vitamins and minerals are particularly important for reptiles, and why?

Vitamins A, D3, and calcium-phosphorus balance—support bone and tissue health

Why is maintaining a proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratio essential in reptile diets?

Prevents metabolic bone disease

What are some diet types for birds, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Seeds—tasty but fatty

Pellets—balanced

Fruits/veggies—healthy but sugary

How are seed-based diets associated with obesity in birds?

They’re high in fat and calories

What is the leading cause of death in pet birds, and how can it be prevented?

Improper nutrition; feed balanced diets

Why is hay considered the foundation of rabbit & guinea pig diets?

Provides fiber for digestion and dental health

What is cecotrophy, and why is it important in rabbits?

Reingestion of feces for vitamins and protein

why must guinea pigs receive vitamin C supplements?

They can’t make vitamin C on their own

When do food preferences form in a guinea pig’s life?

Early in life

What are the differences between rodent pellets and seed mixes?

-Pellets = balanced

-Seeds = selective and unbalanced

Why should sugary treats be limited for small mammals?

Cause obesity and GI upset

What is enterotoxemia, and what dietary habits can trigger it?

-Bacterial toxin disease from high-sugar

-low-fiber diets

What exotic pets are obligate carnivores, and what does this mean for their diet?

Ferrets—require animal-based protein only

Why should diets in the wild serve as a reference point when creating a feeding plan?

Reflects natural nutritional needs

What factors should be considered when evaluating commercial diets for exotic pets?

Species suitability and nutrient balance

How does exercise and environmental enrichment contribute to nutritional health?

Prevents obesity and improves metabolism

How can improper husbandry impact nutrition?

Causes stress, anorexia, and nutrient issues

What strategies can veterinary technicians use to educate owners about diet and husbandry?

Show proper care, give resources, and follow up

What percentage of exotic health problems can be prevented through balanced nutrition and proper husbandry?

About 90%