Prairie Dog Husbandry
Housing
- Caging: Prairie dogs may be housed in cages of wire or stainless steel. Cages of wood or plastic should be avoided as these animals can be destructive chewers. The cage should have at least one side open for proper ventilation. The size of the cage should allow for normal activity and adequate spacing between sleeping, eating and litter box areas. The floor may be wire or solid. If a wire floor is present, a solid platform should be available to prevent foot pad trauma and infection.
- Environment: The cage should be placed in a quiet spot in the house. Prairie dogs prefer a cool, dry environment with adequate ventilation. Do not place the cage in direct sunlight or in regions with drastic temperature fluctuations.
- Bedding: Bedding material should be a clean, nontoxic, absorbent material that may be replaced easily. Paper based bedding is preferred over wood chips because cedar and pine chips can lead to respiratory irritation.
- Exercise: Obesity is common. Prairie dogs should be let out into a designated area for daily exercise. Constant supervision is highly recommended when out of the cage.
Diet
- Commercial diets: In captivity, the majority of the diet should consist of timothy or other grass hays and prairie dog or rabbit pellets (1/4 to 1/3 cup daily). Alfalfa should be avoided due to high calcium levels and potential for development of bladder stones.
- Water: Water should be available at all times and changed daily. Most prairie dogs will learn to drink from sipper bottles.
- Treats: Fruits and grains may be given as treats, but should not constitute more than 10% of the diet.
Handling
When well socialized and handled frequently, these animals may be docile and easy to work with. For restraint, one hand is wrapped around the chest while supporting the hind end with the other hand. A towel may also be used to protect against the sharp nails and teeth.
Quick Facts
Life span: 5-10 years
Weaning age: 6-7 weeks
Gestation: 30-35 days
Sexual maturity: 2-3 years
Common Disease Conditions
- Obesity: Obesity is common with captive prairie dogs and may lead to cardiac and respiratory problems. To prevent this, food must be rationed and adequate exercise provided. Monitor your prairie dogs weight using an accurate gram scale.
- Heart Disease: Heart disease in prairie dogs is commonly associated with obesity and may lead to respiratory complications. Signs of heart disease include lethargy, increased respiratory effort, pale or discolored mucous membranes and cold extremities. Diagnosis is usually made based on clinical signs, physical exam, and chest radiographs. Treatment is aimed at correction of any underlying factors and management of symptoms.
- Ringworm: Prairie dogs are very susceptible to ringworm. Clinical signs include hair loss in a circular pattern, skin discoloration and thickened skin on the head, chest, back or tail regions. Diagnosis is made from skin culture and treatment consists of topical and/or systemic antifungals.
- Dental Disease: Molar malocclusion is common in prairie dogs when fed a soft, low fiber diet. Symptoms include drooling, inappetance, weight loss and decreased fecal output.
- Odontoma: The exact cause of odontomas is unknown, but may be associated with constant damage to the incisors from cage biting. Nutritional factors may also play a role. Clinical signs include decreased nasal air flow, increased respiratory effort, and nasal discharge. Diagnosis is made based on clinical signs and skull radiographs. Treatment is aimed at improvement of airflow through surgical removal of the affected tooth.
- Respiratory Disease: Pneumonia in prairie dogs may result from a number of bacterial or viral agents. Improper husbandry along with concurrent disease processes can increase an animal's susceptibility. Clinical signs include lethargy, decreased appetite, labored breathing, and nasal discharge. Treatment consists of antibiotic therapy along with correction of any husbandry issues.