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A chameleon's mouth

Specialized Dental Solutions for Exotic Pets

A budgie in flight

Exotic pets require dental care that aligns with their unique needs to maintain their health and well-being. Although each species has specific dental requirements, the fundamental principle remains the same—good dental health is essential to lifelong health. At South Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital, we offer expert dental care customized to the diverse needs of each exotic pet we see.

Comprehensive Dental Services

Exotic pets need specialized dental care that differs significantly from traditional pets. Many traditional veterinary practices lack the expertise and resources to address these species' dental needs. At South Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital, our veterinarians have received extensive training to handle even the most complex cases.

A guinea pig's teeth

Our Exotic Pet Dental Services Include:

  • Routine dental exams and cleanings
  • Skull and dental X-rays and CT scans
  • Beak trimming for avian species
  • Tooth filing for rabbits and rodents
  • Dental extractions
  • Specialized dental surgeries
  • Treatment for oral abscesses

Species-Specific Dental Care

Dental care varies from species to species. For example, bearded dragons and ferrets require routine brushing and professional cleanings to support healthy teeth, which may surprise some pet owners.

Here's what you can expect with dental care for specific species:

Rabbits & Rodents

These pets have teeth that grow continuously, and while a proper diet can prevent many dental issues, problems still arise. One common sign of dental disease is recurring GI stasis. If your rabbit experiences multiple episodes of GI stasis without an apparent cause, we recommend scheduling an oral exam with us to rule out dental issues.

Fruit and Plant-Eating Small Mammals

Species like primates, kinkajous, and coatis are especially vulnerable to periodontal disease if their diet is too soft, high in sugars, or lacks fibrous content. A more balanced diet and professional dental care are essential to prevent these conditions.

Reptiles

Reptiles, especially those with improper diets or insufficient UV exposure, are prone to metabolic bone disease, which can also affect their teeth. Reptiles may develop weakened bones and dental disease without proper nutrition which should include access to calcium rich foods and appropriate UV lighting. A balanced diet, adequate UV light, and regular wellness visits can help your pet live a long and healthy life.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our dental care services. We're here to help keep your pet healthy—teeth to tail.