Illustrated Articles
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Chinchillas are generally hardy animals but are susceptible to several unique health conditions; understanding them will help you care for your pet and manage potential health problems. This handout describes the most common conditions seen in pet chinchillas.
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The cage should allow the chinchilla to move around a lot, as they are very active, agile, and acrobatic animals. Multilevel cages, similar to those designed for ferrets, work well, as long as there are no areas where a chinchilla could get its limbs or feet caught. Most owners house one or two pets in a cage; often the two pets are mates. Chinchillas require a dust bath for normal grooming. Cages should be emptied and cleaned at least weekly with soap and water.
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Chlamydial conjunctivitis in cats is highly contagious and can look similar to herpes conjunctivitis. Young cats and kittens are especially vulnerable to this infection, although chlamydia can be detected in cats of all ages. It is one of the most common causes of infectious conjunctivitis in cats. This handout describes the clinical signs and how this condition can be treated or prevented.
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Chlamydiosis (psittacosis, parrot fever, ornithosis) is a common disease of birds caused by a bacterial organism called Chlamydia psittaci. Birds with chlamydiosis exhibit a decreased appetite, weight loss, lethargy, diarrhea, nasal or ocular discharge, a fluffed-up appearance, and breathing difficulties. Testing and treatment are discussed. Chlamydiosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be passed to humans, so all new pet birds should be tested for this disease.
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Chlorambucil is given by mouth and is used off label to treat certain types of cancer and autoimmune diseases. Common side effects include fur loss and changes in hair coat, as well as gastrointestinal upset. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other alkylating medications, that have bone marrow disease, have an active infection, or that are pregnant or lactating. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Chloramphenicol is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off-label to treat bacterial infections. Give as directed. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Do not use in pets with blood disorders, in pediatric or geriatric animals, or in pregnant or nursing females. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinarian.
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Chlorfenapyr poisoning is suspected if a pet has access to this pesticide and subsequently develops expected signs; it should also be suspected in a pet exhibiting signs and at risk of malicious poisoning. Pets that develop clinical signs following chlorfenapyr ingestion are unlikely to survive and chronic complications may be present for survivors.
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Chlorhexidine + ketoconazole topical is used to treat superficial skin infections or overgrowth in dogs and cats. When given as directed, side effects are rarely noted, but could include skin irritation. If you suspect an overdose or accidental ingestion, call your veterinary office immediately.
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Chlorhexidine topical (brand names Chlorhex®, Novalsan®, ChlorhexiDerm®) is an antiseptic used to treat skin infections. It is used to treat surface bacterial and/or fungal skin infections in cats and dogs. This medication may be part of a combination product that includes other medications. Chlorhexidine topical comes in shampoo, liquid, ointment, and wipe form.
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Chlorhexidine/hydrocortisone/trizEDTA topical (TrizCHLOR® 4HC) is a shampoo and spray conditioner used topically in cats, dogs, and horses to support animals with conditions such as superficial, itchy, bacterial and fungal skin infections (pyoderma); acute moist dermatitis (hotspots); and pododermatitis (skin infections of the foot).
