DETERMINING THE BEST HOUSING PRACTICES FOR RABBITS, RATS, AND GUINEA PIGS

Abstract

The importance of proper pet care has long been recognized by both the veterinary industry and the public. However, numerous major pet corporations sell products that are dangerous to the health and well-being of pets around the world and a large portion of the pet-owning population is unaware of this. Exotic pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats have been around for decades yet finding information about proper care for them from credible sources is difficult. This leaves pet owners in a situation where ignorance or false information about pet care can easily be spread. The long-term goal of the research is to inform pet owners, both current and future, about the harms that certain products advertised towards pets can cause so they can make knowledgeable decisions. The objective of the study is to provide a comprehensive review of literature and common practices in relation to dwarf rabbits, American guinea pigs, fancy rats, and other breeds from these species. A thorough review of literature on husbandry for rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats has been conducted. The literature shows that many of the enclosures sold to pet owners are not competent and could harm their pets. Multiple interviews of veterinarians have been completed. These interviews provided enclosure recommendations and highlighted some common issues with enclosures used by pet owners. A comparative analysis of the literature and the interviews was done to measure the alignment of recommendations. Additionally, a survey was sent out to pet owners to collect data about the health of their pets and their housing practices. This data was then analyzed to determine patterns of housing practices and health outcomes.