Cyclical Bloat

[Chuwokita]

Hi All,

I have three chins housed in the same cage (Chupa, M, neutered,6.5 years; Ewok, F, 6.5 years; Gordita, F, 5.5 years). They have oxbow pellets and timothy hay, which is supplemented with the occasional sunflower seed or raisin.

Roughly every 7-8 weeks for the past year or so, the older female Ewok has shown signs of bloat along with small feces. I have taken her to the vet, who advised that I give her gas drops (GasX) and a laxative (Laxatone) when she starts exhibiting symptoms. With treatment she seems to bounce right back a day or so later.

Just wanted to see if anyone else on here has had this issue, or knows what could be causing these symptoms so cyclicly (hormones, fur cycles, etc.?).

 

[Stackie]

Raisins and sunflower seeds could very well be the culprit of her chronic bloat. Neither is good for chins. The sunflower seed is high in fat content and the raisin is high in sugar. The sugar can cause an overgrowth of bacteria in the gut. A byproduct of bacteria is gas, hence bloat.

I would stop giving both and see if that helps. In the future you can slowly add in healthy treats (plain Cheerios, rose hips, old fashioned oats) but still in moderation.


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