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« on: May 16, 2014, 05:40:41 AM »
WARNING: GRAPHIC PICTURE OF INFECTED EAR.
Hi everyone,
I'm looking for some help in finding an easier and healthier way to feed my chinchilla his antibiotics. He refuses the syringe method and we currently have to pump a raisin with the medicine, however this is not a healthy option. I'm also looking for anyone with similar scenarios and how they have managed to overcome them.
A backstory - Pico is one year old and was one of three chins born to a first time mum. He was the runt of the litter and as a result, we had to hand feed him every four hours for months. He's had medical issues which have resulted in the administering of antibiotics, such as a scabby nose and his 'distressed' ear. A chunk didn't form at the top of his ear and it eventually became infected when he was about 5 months old. We were given antibiotics for weeks and then eventually, a cream that would cause the infection to scab over and for new skin to form underneath. Unfortunately, he had to undergo an operation to have the top part of his ear cut off in the end.
His ear had healed perfectly and he became happy and chirpy, when before he was very reserved. However, 5 days ago, my partner noticed his ear looking slightly red and sore again. We made an appointment with our vet straight away, but the next day his ear was weepy and bloody (however, this may be due to his brother, Luiz, grooming his ear). Our vet prescribed a slightly larger dose of antibiotics, however Pico will refuse to take them and I don't blame him! Due to his horrible start to life, I'm sure he hates the sight of a syringe! I've tried holding Pico the tightest I could, however he will turn his head every time the syringe comes close to his mouth. I have a very close bond with my chins, one that I don't want to break through tough loving! Most of the time, we can get the majority down him through raisins, however this is a very unhealthy way to do so. Our vet said, as long as we can get the medicine down him, then do it, but I'm worried of long term health, especially if this is going to be a recurring problem. Although Pico loves raisins, too many of them will not be good for his gut, as I'm sure many of you are aware. I'm very keen to ensure Pico gets the correct dose of his medicine twice a day to guarantee he doesn't have to have another operation and therefore would be looking for another way of doing so.
Are there any chinchilla owners who have any tips for administering medicine a better way? Will appreciate all ideas and methods.
I was also wondering if there are any similar cases out there and what could have caused this infection? Our vet believes it may be a case of bad circulation as the ear either didn't form correctly or was damaged at a very young age.
I have included a picture the vet took during the original operation so you can see what the infection looks like. His current infection is similar, however just scabbed over.
Thanks in advance for your answers.
