Exotics Nutrition Review Questions

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

Medical issues, medications, current diet, husbandry (environment, substrate, enrichment, behavior), and owner observations.

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

Ask open-ended questions, stress honesty, observe feeding setups, and clarify portions and food types.

Why should husbandry factors be evaluated?

Environment and care directly affect nutrition, health, and stress levels.

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

Weight, body condition score, and palpation appropriate to species type (mammal, bird, reptile).

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

Mammals: muscle/fat palpation; Birds: keel evaluation; Reptiles: body and tail muscle tone.

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

Diets must match lifespan and life stage—longer-lived species need sustainable, balanced nutrition.

Why is water considered essential for all species?

All species require clean, fresh water for hydration, metabolism, and digestion.

What are some risks of using water supplements?

They can alter taste, reduce drinking, and promote bacterial growth.

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

Deficiency: poor growth, feather loss. Excess: gout and kidney stress.

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

Excess protein raises uric acid levels, leading to gout and renal overload.

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

Vitamin C—guinea pigs can’t synthesize it, preventing scurvy.

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

Vitamins A & D3 and calcium for bone and metabolic heal

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

Imbalance causes metabolic bone disease and weak bones.

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

Seeds (cheap but unbalanced), pellets (balanced but boring), fruits/veggies (nutritious but sugary).

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

Seeds are high in fat and low in nutrients, leading to obesity and malnutrition.

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

Improper nutrition; prevented by balanced diets and owner education.

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

Provides fiber for gut health and proper digestion.

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

Re-ingesting nutrient-rich feces for essential vitamins and gut flora balance.

Why must guinea pigs receive vitamin C supplements?

They can’t produce vitamin C; deficiency causes scurvy and joint issues.

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

Early in life; they imprint on preferred foods as juveniles.

What are the differences between rodent pellets and seed mixes?

Pellets are balanced; seed mixes encourage picky eating and imbalance.

Why should sugary treats be limited for small mammals?

Cause obesity and can trigger enterotoxemia.

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

Overgrowth of harmful gut bacteria due to excessive sugary treats or low fiber diets.

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

Ferrets; they require high-protein, low-carb diets with animal-based protein.

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

Wild diets guide natural nutrient needs and feeding behaviors.

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

Ingredient quality, species-specific formulation, balance, and manufacturer reputation.

How does exercise and environmental enrichment contribute to nutritional health?

Prevents obesity, supports digestion, reduces stress, and promotes mental stimulation.

How can improper husbandry impact nutrition?

Causes stress, appetite loss, nutrient malabsorption, and illness.

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

Provide clear written instructions, demonstrate setups, explain species needs, and schedule rechecks.

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

Approximately 90%.