Small Mammal Research

Small Mammal Research
Just like cats and dogs, it is important to take your small companion mammals to the vet! This guinea pig in this photo is visiting the Companion Exotic Animal Medicine service at UC Davis for his annual examination.

Small Mammal Research

Small companion mammals, such as the guinea pig shown on this page, are common pets in households across the United States. In 2016, the American Pet Products Association estimated that 5.4 million U.S. households cared for a small companion mammal. Popular small companion mammals include rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, rats and sugar gliders.

Researchers in the CZAR lab are interested in developing new solutions and diagnostics to meet the specialized medical demands of these unique and charismatic pets. Previously, the CZAR lab undertook research projects aimed at improving analgesia in guinea pigs and investigating the efficacy of portable glucometers when monitoring blood glucose levels in the ferret (more information listed below).