If you’re wondering what to do when a pocket pet gets hurt, start by keeping them calm, limiting their movement, and watching for signs that they may need veterinary care. Our team at CARA regularly works with pocket pets who are injured and need therapy to recover. Unlike dogs and cats, injuries can be harder to spot in a guinea pig, hamster, rabbit, or other small pocket pet. Because they are prey animals, they tend to stay quiet and hide when something hurts.
The first priority is figuring out whether or not your pet needs immediate veterinary care and keeping them safe. Here’s what to know when your pocket pet gets hurt and how to help them recover.
What Should You Do If Your Guinea Pig or Hamster Gets Hurt?
Move slowly and don’t handle your pocket pet more than necessary, especially if you can’t tell where they’re injured. Instead, put your pet somewhere quiet and secure where they can’t injure themselves by climbing, jumping, or falling. Make sure they have plenty of soft, clean bedding and keep food and water within reach.
If you notice any bleeding, you can apply some light pressure with clean gauze or a cloth and contact your veterinarian right away. Whatever you do, don’t try to straighten out their leg or move a swollen joint. Don’t give your pocket pet human medication unless your veterinarian tells you to.
What Are Common Causes of Injuries in Pocket Pets?
Pocket pets can get hurt in ways that you may not even notice, making you think they’re probably okay. Guinea pigs and rabbits can injure a leg or their back from a fall, while hamsters may get hurt on wheels, platforms, or other cage equipment. Bites or rough interactions with another pet can also cause wounds that aren’t obvious right away. We also see pocket pets that accidentally get stepped on or get hurt after an awkward landing. There are all kinds of reasons smaller pets get injured, but it’s better to get them checked out instead of assuming they’re fine.
How Can You Tell If Your Pocket Pet Is in Pain?
Pocket pets don’t always cry out or whimper, but there are some subtle signs you can watch for, including:
- Limping or not using one leg
- Hunched or unusual posture
- Moving less than normal
- Hiding more
- Flinching or resisting handling
- Grinding teeth
- Not grooming normally
- Eating or drinking less
The goal is to pay attention to changes in your pet’s normal behavior that could mean something is wrong. It’s always better to play it safe with your pets and have them checked out by a veterinarian.
When Does a Pocket Pet Injury Need Emergency Veterinary Care?
Pocket pets can deteriorate quickly when they’re injured, making urgent vet care a must. Here’s when to head to the vet for emergency care:
- Trouble breathing
- Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
- A suspected broken bone
- Inability to stand or walk
- A serious fall or crushing injury
- An open wound
- Extreme weakness or lack of response
- Sudden loss of appetite, especially when paired with low energy or pain
It’s important not to wait to see whether or not symptoms improve on their own. These kinds of small pets need care right away.
Should You Separate an Injured Pocket Pet From Other Pets?
You may need to separate an injured pocket pet from others if they’re being climbed on, competing for food, or having a hard time resting. You also want to keep another pet in the house from licking or disturbing a wound or surgical area. Before separating bonded guinea pigs, rabbits, or other social pets for long periods, ask your veterinarian what they recommend. Depending on the injury, they may recommend keeping them nearby where they can still see or smell each other, which may help reduce stress while your injured pet heals.
Can Pet Rehabilitation Help After an Injury?
Yes, when pocket pets are injured, it’s important to get rehabilitation or tips from a vet. Some pets need specific exercises to help with their strength, flexibility, and balance. CARA takes an individualized approach based on your pet’s injury, mobility, and needs. We’ll help determine what kind of support may help them get back to normal.
Help Your Pocket Pet Get Back on Their Feet with CARA
If your pocket pet starts moving differently, eating less, or acting unlike themselves, it’s worth paying attention. After veterinary treatment, some pets may need extra help getting their strength and mobility back. Contact our team at Companion Animal Rehab & Athletics to see if rehabilitation could help your pocket pet recover.
