Exotic Pet Care

Our Veterinarian Dr Joyce Lee has a wealth of knowledge in small animal medicine and exotics care.

Birds

Birds, from the little cockatiel to the majestic macaw, can make lively and adventurous additions to your home. The many different species of birds can live anywhere from 20 to 80 years, so be sure to do your research and make sure you have the correct space, environment and time to devote to these intelligent animals before welcoming them into your family.

Feeding pet birds a good, balanced diet is the single most important thing you can do to make sure they stay healthy. An all-seed diet is not appropriate and can lead to severe nutritional deficiencies and metabolic illnesses. A pelleted diet from Harrison’s, Lafeber, Roudybush or Zupreem (which can be ordered from https://www.petshopdirect.com.au/) should make up a majority of your bird’s diet, along with occasional treats of whole wheat pasta, fresh fruit and leafy green vegetables.

Bird behaviour is astoundingly complex. Many birds develop behavioural disorders such as feather picking if they are not provided with enough enrichment. You should socialise with your bird daily and regularly rotate perches and toys.

Misting birds, or giving them a large, heavy bowl to bathe in, should be done 4-5 times a week.

Fresh water should be offered at all times and it should be changed daily.

Dr. Paws Kotara recommends annual physical exams with our exotic animal veterinarian, and weekly exams done at home to check attitude, appetite, elimination and weight.

Exotic animals often hide signs of illness until they are very sick, so it is important to pay attention to even minor changes. Call us at 02 4047 9910 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

Reptiles

Reptiles, from aquatic turtles, geckos, bearded dragons, snakes and beyond, come in all shapes and sizes, and they can be a great addition to your home.

Proper nutrition is one of the most difficult part of keeping a reptile, as each species has very different nutritional needs. Many need species-specific diets and mineral supplementation. It is very important to consult with your veterinarian about the best way to care for your new pet, as many pet shops do not have access to the latest information.

Proper housing is also a challenging part of keeping a reptile. Many need species need specific temperature and humidity gradients, and a light source with the correct spectrum of UVA and UVB. It is very important to consult with your veterinarian about the best way to care for your new pet, as many pet shops do not have access to the latest information.

Providing fresh water at all times, to every reptile, is imperative. They do not synthesise enough water from their food to sustain them, even if they are traditionally “desert” species.

Dr. Paws Kotara recommends annual physical exams with our exotic animal veterinarian, and weekly exams done at home to check attitude, appetite, elimination and weight. Exotic animals often hide signs of illness until they are very sick, so it is important to pay attention to even minor changes. Call us at 02 4047 9910 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

Book your exotic pet consult

To book call us on (02) 4047 9910 or fill out a query form here and our team will be in touch with you.

Serving the pet community of the Newcastle City Council. The purrfect location for pet parents living in Kotara, Kotara South, Adamstown, New Lambton, Charlestown, Newcastle and surrounding areas!

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