Diseases of Small Domestic Rodents

Increasing numbers of small rodents are being kept as pets and veterinary surgeons are often asked for advice on a variety of species. This book deals with six popular creatures - chinchillas, mice, rats, gerbils, hamsters and chipmunks. The first chapter of each section provides an introduction to each species and an outline of husbandry and nutrition, emphasizing any disease process that may result from poor management. The second, devoted to diseases, moves logically through all the systems (the skin, reproductive, urinary, respiratory, digestive, musculoskeletal and central nervous systems), behaviour, the head and the neck, presenting information in an accessible form, and explaining signs and symptoms accompanied by practical solutions and advice. The third chapter of each section covers anaesthesia, surgery and a list of drug treatments. The book ends with a chapter on zoonotic organisms. Set out for quick reference, the book should prove useful, not only for veterinary practitioners and students, but also breeders.