Illustrated Articles
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Ferrets can be affected by a variety of conditions that cause problems with the stomach and intestinal tract, as this handout outlines. Some conditions may be treated with medication while others require surgical intervention.
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Gastrointestinal endoscopy uses a flexible tube with a camera or viewing port to inspect the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine, or the colon. The endoscope cannot reach all areas of the small intestine, so other tests may be needed to diagnose disease in these areas. 12–18 hours fasting and enemas are required prior to endoscopy depending on the area being studied.
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Gastrointestinal endoscopy uses a flexible tube with a camera or viewing port to inspect the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine, or the colon. The endoscope cannot reach all areas of the small intestine, so other tests may be needed to diagnose disease in these areas. 12-18 hours fasting and enemas are required prior to endoscopy depending on the area being studied.
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Ferrets are naturally curious animals, and it is common for them to chew and swallow foreign material, which cdan cause gastrointestinal (GI) upset or obstruction. Typical swallowed objects include rubber bands, bits of rubber toy, foam, remote control buttons and other similar items. Hairballs are another potential cause of GI obstruction. Hairballs (trichobezoars) are compacted wads of fur, which may develop over time as a ferret grooms adn swallows fur. Unlike cats, ferrets seldom vomit up hairballs, adn the compacted fur may ause gastrointestinal (GI) upset or obstruction.
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Gastrointestinal stasis (Ileus) is a potentially dangerous condition in rabbits, where muscular contractions of the stomach and/or intestines are reduced, and normal bacteria in the digestive tract become out of balance. Rabbits can quickly become lethargic, may exhibit signs of pain such as teeth grinding and a hunched up posture, adn begin to produce excessive gas, adn sometimes soft stool or diarrhea. Left untreated, severe cases of gastrointestinal stasis can be fatal.
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Rabbits that are not eating may have developed gastrointestinal (GI) stasis. GI stasis may be caused by a physiologic change in bacteria or by one of several other conditions such as E. cuniculi. Supportive treatment either in or out of the hospital will be prescribed for a rabbit with GI stasis. Prevention steps are discussed. Have your rabbit checked regularly by a veterinarian who can monitor for the occurrence of other underlying diseases that may contribute to the development of GI stasis.
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A gastropexy is a surgical procedure that is sometimes performed in large-breed dogs to prevent gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat – a life-threatening condition. This handout explains how the procedure works, how it is used preventatively and in emergency situations, risk factors, and post-operative care.
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A gastrostomy (G-) tube is a small rubber or silicone tube that passes directly into the stomach through the cat’s skin and abdominal wall. It allows you to deliver food, water, and medications directly into the stomach. This article outlines how to use and maintain a G-tube for your cat.
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A gastrostomy (G-) tube is a small rubber or silicone tube that passes directly into the stomach through the dog’s skin and abdominal wall. It allows you to deliver food, water, and medications directly into the stomach. This article outlines how to use and maintain a G-tube for your dog.
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Gemfibrozil is a medication prescribed off-label by veterinarians to treat high levels of fat (lipids) in the blood of dogs and cats when dietary modifications have not been effective. Occasionally, it is also used in birds for the same purpose. As a relatively new drug in veterinary medicine, its benefits, side effects, and adverse effects are still being determined.