Congested

[lovemychingary]

Hey y'all. I have a vet appointment scheduled for tomorrow, but just wanted to see if anyone could give me some insight.. Gary has been sounding real congested lately. Any idea what I may be? I've had him for over 2 years and i've never seen him get a cold or anything like this (with the exception of the raisin debacle a few months go). Any feedback is greatly appreciated!

 

[chechinchillas]

My guess would be a respiratory infection and antibiotics needed asap.

 

[saphire]

My guess would be a respiratory infection and antibiotics needed asap.

Ditto!!

 

[ticklechin]

The faster treatment is started, the better the chance of a good outcome.

 

[becky12883]

Do you have an ac or fan pointed at his cage? If so it needs to be moved. That's the first thing I think of anytime someone says URI, I've read too many sad stories.

 

[aznmexaggie]

Sounds like he could have a URI. With chins, it's important to get them on antibiotics to fight the infection right away! I have always had good luck with TMS (trimethoprim-sulfa) for treating respiratory infections and not causing any side-effects such as loss of appetite and the slowing of the GI tract which can sometimes occur with Baytril (enrofloxacin). Baytril is a bit "stronger" though so if the chin's URI is severe enough, the vet may prescribe that. In that case, just be prepared to handfeed if necessary. You might want to keep a bag of Critical Care on hand, just in case.