Comparative investigation on the distribution of diseases in rabbits, Guinea pigs, rats, and ferrets

Aim: The histories of exotic pet patients presented between 1994 and 2003 to the clinic for zoo animals, exotic pets and wildlife, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich were retrospectively analysed regarding the development of case numbers and diseases in the most frequent species. Material and methods: A data bank including all patients was established from which the class of mammals was further investigated for the most frequent species and most frequent reasons for presentations or diagnoses. The results were compared to similar studies from Germany. Results: In the period investigated 11833 visits, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, were counted. Mammals represented the highest proportion with 5793 animals, including rabbits (n = 2125), Guinea pigs (n = 2009), rats (n = 651) and ferrets (n = 162). The number of rabbits and ferrets increased significantly during the investigated period. In rabbits and Guinea pigs the most frequent diagnosis was dental disease and in rats and ferrets neoplasia. Neutering was a frequent reason for visits. Conclusions and clinical relevance: The results reflect the differences in the diseases that affect exotic pets. In ferrets they support the relation between the age of the animals at castration and occurrence of hyperadrenocorticism. In addition this investigation reveals that due to lack of adequate diagnostic investigations a definite diagnosis is often not reached.