Exotic Pets

We care for an unusually wide variety of species

Chipping Norton Veterinary Hospital has been treating:

  • zoo animals
  • rabbits and 'small furries'
  • ferrets
  • falconry birds
  • backyard poultry
  • exotic pets
  • reptiles
  • amphibians
  • cage and aviary birds
  • primates

and other less-common mammal pets for decades, and is well known for work in this area. 

One of our vets, Nathalie Wissink-Argilaga, is an RCVS Specialist in Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, and a council member of the British Veterinary Zoological Society.  One of the Hospital's Directors, Peter Kettlewell, is a recent past-President of the British Veterinary Zoolocial Society.  The Hospital's other Director, Martin Whitehead, is involved in research into both pet and zoo reptile diseases, and in efforts to improve the welfare of exotic pets in general, and regularly presents on exotic pets and zoo reptiles at veterinary conferences.

Refer a Case

Many vets are not comfortable dealing with these less common or unusual species, which often require out-of-the-ordinary veterinary knowledge and expertise, and many of the veterinary practices in a wide area surrounding our veterinary hospital refer owners of such animals to us.

 

We have dedicated 'small furries' and 'exotics' wards and all the necessary equipment and facilities to diagnose and treat the diseases of these species.

 

Veterinary surgeons wishing to discuss a case or arrange a referral, please call our main hospital number, 01608 642547, or complete this referral form.

Our facilities for rabbits, 'small furries' and exotic pets include:

  • Dedicated wards for rabbits and 'small furries', for reptiles, and for avian and other exotic pets, with controlled lighting, heating and ventilation
  • Nursing staff experienced in caring for unusual species
  • 64-slice CT scanner
  • Digital x-ray machine
  • Digital dental x-ray machine, and dedicated equipment for rabbit and 'small-furry' dental work
  • Ultrasonography, with a wide range of probe heads allowing imaging of a wide range of animal sizes
  • Video endoscopy, with a range of flexible and rigid endoscopes
  • Rebound tonometer
  • ECG
  • Blood-pressure monitoring
  • In-house laboratory that enables us to process haematology, blood biochemistry, electrolytes and urine samples quickly in an emergency situation.  We also have microscopes for parasitology and an incubator for bacterial culture and sensitivity testing
  • Surgical facilities suitable for soft-tissue and orthopaedic procedures in a wide range of species.
  • Ventilator for anaesthetised patients
  • Incubator units for critical care cases
  • Nebuliser

Rabbits

Rabbits are sensitive, intelligent pets that require specialised care.

 

As a prey species, signs of illness can be subtle, meaning problems may go unnoticed without regular veterinary checks. From early health assessments and vaccinations to neutering, dental care and microchipping, proactive care is key to preventing disease.

 

Our experienced team is confident handling rabbits and offers advanced facilities, including imaging, surgery and specialist-led treatments.

 

We also provide guidance on nutrition, behaviour and ageing, helping you support your rabbit from their first check to their senior years, ensuring they stay healthy, happy and comfortable throughout life.

Find out more rabbit information here