Rabbit and Small Pet Vets in Middlesbrough

Vets for rabbits and small pets

Rabbits and small furries deserve the same careful veterinary care as cats and dogs. We see rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, mice, ferrets and other small pets. Our care for them includes health checks, vaccinations, neutering, flea and worm treatment, dental care, wound care and pain management.

When you call, tell us the species, age and what you have noticed, so we can book the right appointment.

Why small pets need prompt attention

Rabbits and small pets are prey animals, and they are very good at hiding signs of illness. By the time they look unwell, a problem may already be well advanced. Changes in eating, drinking, droppings, breathing, weight or behaviour are all worth mentioning early.

If your rabbit stops eating or stops passing droppings, call us the same day. This can be a sign of a serious problem called gut stasis, and rabbits can become very unwell quickly.

Routine care

Rabbits need regular vaccinations to protect them against myxomatosis and rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD), which are both very serious diseases. Your vet will talk through the right vaccines and timings for your rabbit.

Rabbits' and guinea pigs' teeth grow continuously, and dental problems are common, especially if their diet does not include enough hay or grass. We check teeth at every visit; see our pet dental care page for more. Neutering rabbits can help prevent unwanted litters and, in females, reduces the risk of some womb problems; we carry this out as part of our pet surgery service. Small pets can also be microchipped.

Coming to see us

Bring small pets in a secure, well-ventilated carrier with some of their usual bedding, and bring a companion along if they are bonded. If you can, bring a note of their diet, or a little of their usual food, and a photo of their housing; it helps your vet give the best advice.

Treatment for small pets depends on the individual animal, and your vet will discuss options and give you an estimate. If tests are needed, see our pet diagnostic tests page. If you keep birds too, see our bird vet care page.

Diet, housing and companionship

Many health problems in rabbits and small pets are linked to diet and housing. Rabbits and guinea pigs need unlimited hay or grass, which supports both their teeth and their gut, along with fresh greens and only small amounts of pellets. Guinea pigs also need vitamin C in their diet. Rabbits and guinea pigs are sociable animals and are usually happiest with a compatible companion of their own species. Housing should give them space to move, stretch and hide, and protection from extremes of heat and cold. If you are unsure about any of this, ask at your pet's next check-up and we will give you practical advice.