Merck Veterinary Manual - Chinchillas - Physical Examination

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alpayton

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Copied from http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/in.../bc/171503.htm

Physical Examination:

The animal's overall appearance and behavior should be noted. Sick chinchillas may show weight loss, hunched posture, abnormal gait, scruffy hair coat, or labored breathing. They may be lethargic or unresponsive to stimulation. Respiratory or GI conditions are most commonlyencountered and may be signaled by ocular and nasal discharges or diarrhea. Feet should be examined for sores or broken nails. Teeth may be discolored or overgrown. Ears should be examined for discharges or inflammation and eyes for discharges or conjunctivitis. The submandibular area should be examined for swellings. Labored breathing and abnormal respiratory sounds should be noted. The abdomen should be palpated for masses.


Chinchillas should be handled calmly and gently to minimize stress. Docile, nonpregnant animals can be removed from a cage by grasping and lifting the base of the tail while using the opposite hand to support the body. Otherwise, the animal should be guided into its nesting box or a small enclosure with an open end. Routine restraint can be accomplished by wrapping a towel around the body. For longer periods of examination or treatment, a squeezable restraining device can be used. Small chinchillas may be grasped gently around the thoarx, taking care not to restrict breathing. Pregnant females should not be handled unless necessary. Pregnancy is detectable by palpation at 90 days gestation and may also be determined by regular weighing. After 6 wk, weight gain in pregnant chinchillas will increase rapidly.

A protective reaction in chinchillas known as fur slip results in the release of a large patch of fur revealing smooth, clean skin underneath. It may also occur with improper handling, fighting, or anything that overexcites chinchillas. The fur can take several months to regrow and frequently results in a different shade. To prevent this phenomenon, chinchillas should be handled gently with minimal stress.
 
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