Skin care for your small pet may not be an obvious chore for you as an owner, but it is. While small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs are known to groom themselves, owners like you would also have to know how to help carry out skin care for your small pet.
First, you have to know that skin of small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and rodents are quite fragile, so if you would have to brush them to reduce shedding, do so with a gentle brush, preferably one that is specifically designed for small pets. Bristle brushes are recommended tools for skin care for your small pet because they don't break small pet's skin like metal slickers do. Ideally, it is a good idea to brush your furry friend at least once a week, and even more frequently when he is shedding. To remove fallen hair after a good brushing session, you can apply a damp cloth over the skin.
Fleas, ticks, and ear mites cause major skin and fur problems in small pets. Signs your small pet has these pests are fairly easy to detect. Scratching is one of the most obvious signs your small pet has fleas and ticks. Fleas live on the pet's skin surface and feed on body fluids, leaving reddish brown specks and wounds in serious infestations. You can easily catch fleas by simple inspection, but the real problem lies in permanently getting rid of them. Aside from scratching, fleas may also cause hair loss and unsightly skin lesions. Moreover, an untreated flea case may lead to serious problems like anemia. Once you see signs your small pet has fleas, never use medications that are prescribed for other animals. Flea powders, flea dips or anti flea and tick shampoos will not sit well with your little pet. You will have to use flea products continuously, usually at least once a month, to make sure that all fleas and their eggs have been killed. Flea combs also make great tools for skin care of your small pet and can be used in combination to your flea control program. While these medications can also eliminate fleas and eggs in your vicinity, you would also have to thoroughly sanitize your pet's cage, bedding, and your entire house to ensure good skin care for your small pet.
Small pet flea control can be done in several ways. Most people choose synthetic chemicals as a way to eliminate signs your small pet has fleas, while others go for the home-remedy types. While there is no one method for everyone, the fact remains that small pet flea control should be carried out continuously to avoid reinfestation and guarantee superior skin care for your small pet.
