Stomach Ulcers in Chinchillas

Inflammatory Stomach Lesions

Sometimes referred to as gastric ulcers, stomach ulcers are inflammatory lesions of the stomach's mucous membrane lining. These ulcers often occur in young chinchillas and are frequently caused by eating coarse, fibrous roughage. Eating toxic, moldy feed can also damage the stomach lining.

This condition is often difficult to diagnose because signs such as loss of appetite and stomach pains are easily overlooked. Therefore, it is important to remain vigilant of your chinchilla's actions, bringing it to a veterinarian at the first sign of stomach ulcers.

Symptoms

Symptoms of stomach ulcers are not always noticeable, but you should look out for a depressed appearance and a loss of appetite in your gerbil. It may also suffer from stomach pains, occasionally rolling around on the ground because of it.

Causes

Young chinchillas are more susceptible to stomach ulcers because of their tender stomachs. But it can occur in chinchillas of all ages, especially if they have eaten coarse, fibrous roughage or moldy feed.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian may conduct various gastrointestinal exams to diagnose the condition.

Treatment

Your veterinarian will typically prescribe stomach coating agents and antacids to treat the gerbil's stomach ulcer(s).

Living and Management

Stomach ulcers usually take a long time to heal. During this time, your pet chinchilla needs constant monitoring and care, a well-balanced, easily digestible diet and plenty of rest.

Prevention

A well-balanced, easily digestible diet can also prevent stomach ulcers from developing in many cases.

Featured image: iStock.com/Andrei Marchenko