Septicemia in Chinchillas

Septicemia is a suppurative disease causing bacteria and toxins in the blood of chinchillas. Infections across multiple portions of your chinchilla's body may follow untreated bacterial gastroenteritis, although other bacteria may also cause it. Because chinchillas may quickly succumb to the toxins and die suddenly, it is always best to consult a veterinarian when signs of general bacterial infection are noticed. Propmt treatment is the best way to avoid the development of septicemia.

The best way to treat septicemia is to first diagnose the specific organism that has caused the toxin to spread in the blood stream of the chinchilla. This is done through blood tests and culture and sensitivity tests. Antibiotics are given orally or through injections. If the chinchilla is dehydrated, the antibiotics may be given along with the intravenous saline treatment.

Symptoms

• Depression
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Rough coat
• Death

Causes

The most common cause of septicemia is bacterial toxins in the blood. This can happen when bacterial infections, like bacterial gastroenteritis, are not treated.

Diagnosis

Observing the various non-specific signs exhibited by the chinchilla would make your veterinarian suspect a possible bacterial cause. The exact nature of the organisms, which are responsible for the condition, can be assessed only by performing blood tests.