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The incisors, front four teeth (top and
bottom), of both rabbits and rodents continually grow
throughout life. If the top and bottom incisors
do not meet correctly, one or more of
the teeth may overgrow. This may lead to
problems with eating and cause pain. If this
occurs, the affected incisor must be trimmed,
which needs to be done by your veterinarian
and may require anesthesia. In rabbits, chinchillas, and guinea pigs, the molars (large teeth in the back of the mouth) can overgrow, especially if the animal is not offered sufficient high fiber foods like hay.
In nature, rodents and rabbits are continually
chewing on something. The constant
gnawing that should normally occur continually
wears the teeth down. In your home, your
small pet will need you to supply him with
appropriate items to chew.
RODENTS
You can help your rat, mouse, guinea pig,
or other small rodent's dental health with the
correct chew toys. We suggest the following:
- Critter Ka-Bobs are metal
skewers that hang from the cage with interchangeable
wooden treats. They're also a
great way to serve your pet fresh fruits and
vegetables and keep them out of the soiled
litter/bedding.
- Regal Kritty Treats are
wooden toys filled with seeds that keep your
clever pet interested.
- Chew Toys do double
duty as a fruit-flavored treat and a chew toy.
RABBITS
Although rabbits are not rodents, they
still instinctually chew. Chewing is not
only necessary for dental health, it also helps
pique their interest and keep their active
minds sharp. Our suggestions for rabbits:
- Bunny Flip & Toss Toys give rabbits a chance to chew and throw - a
necessity for any rabbit, mellow or energetic.
- Alfalfa Cubes combine specialized nutrition with chewing action for younger, developing rabbits.
- Timothy Hay should be the mainstay of a rabbit's diet and will help keep older rabbits' teeth worn down.
- Crispy Chews provide an ideal gnaw surface.
Remember that even within the same species,
small rodents and rabbits have different
personalities and different likes and dislikes.
Your best bet is to offer your small pet
different chewing items (not all at the same
time) and see which one he prefers. |
