Exotic Pet Emergencies in Auburn, WA

Exotic pets, from parrots to geckos to guinea pigs, don’t always visit a vet as often as canine and feline pets. In fact, many exotic pets only ever see a veterinarian when they’re sick. But how exactly can someone know when their pet is having a medical crisis? Affordable Animal Emergency Clinic wants exotic pet owners in the Auburn area to feel confident in recognizing true emergencies because swift action can save a life. In this guide, we’ll cover some common urgent health issues seen in birds, reptiles, and small mammals by emergency exotic vets.

Emergency Signs in Avian Pets (Birds)

Birds can have medical illnesses all their own, like Parrot Fever, or experience an urgent medical situation like poisoning. Seek care from an emergency exotic vet if your bird shows:

• Prolonged fluffed-up feathers
• Lethargy
• Trouble breathing or tail bobbing with each breath
• Discharge from the nostrils or eyes
• Sudden bleeding or injuries from falls or cage accidents
• Straining to lay an egg (egg binding)
• Refusal to eat or drink for 12+ hours
• Vomiting or regurgitating abnormally

These signs often indicate infections, trauma, or internal issues that require immediate attention.

Emergency Signs in Pet Reptiles (Lizards, Snakes, etc.)

Reptiles rely heavily on environmental conditions to function properly. A drop in temperature, humidity, or improper diet can trigger life-threatening issues. Call an exotic veterinarian immediately if your reptile is:

• Lethargic or unresponsive
• Having seizures or muscle spasms
• Bleeding or has visible wounds
• Appears bloated
• Shedding incompletely with retained skin
• Showing signs of mouth rot, bubbling from the nose, or swelling in the jaw
• Impacted (unable to defecate)

Many of these issues can escalate quickly without urgent veterinary care.

Emergency Signs in Small Mammals (Guinea Pigs, Rabbits, Hamsters, etc.)

Many small mammal pets have fast metabolisms that can escalate certain medical issues quickly. You should seek emergency exotic pet care if your small mammal:

• Stops eating or drinking
• Shows signs of bloating or painful abdomen
• Is breathing rapidly or shallowly
• Has diarrhea or bloody urine
• Is unresponsive or suddenly weak
• Has visible injuries, especially around the spine or limbs
• Is constantly scratching or losing fur in patches (may indicate severe mites or infection)

These symptoms usually signal serious medical problems in a pet.

Emergency Treatment for Exotic Pets in Auburn, WA

When it comes to exotic pets, knowing the early signs of distress and acting fast can make the difference in saving your pet’s life. Affordable Animal Emergency Clinic has emergency services for exotic pets in Auburn from Federal Way, Kent, Covington, and nearby Washington areas.

Please call ahead if your pet is experiencing a medical emergency. Not all veterinarians at our hospital are able to treat exotics. Calling allows us to confirm the availability of our exotic-trained staff. If your exotic pet is showing signs of distress, contact us at Affordable Animal Emergency Clinic now to check on the availability of an exotic vet.