The Exotic Patient That Won’t Eat: A Practical Approach to Anorexia

This lecture will examine the key considerations involved in the diagnosis and management of anorexia in companion exotic pets. The underlying causes, diagnostic approach, treatment strategies, and urgency of intervention vary significantly depending on species and patient history. As a result, practitioners must possess a foundational understanding of the physiology and husbandry requirements of commonly encountered exotic species in order to determine an appropriate and effective management plan. Basic physiologic and husbandry principles of common exotic pets will be reviewed, and participants will gain practical guidance in identifying underlying causes and implementing appropriate management strategies for anorexia in these species.

• • Understand the clinical significance and variable urgency of anorexia across different exotic pet species
• • Identify common underlying causes of anorexia in exotic pets and recognize the importance of knowledge of basic care and obtaining a thorough history
• • Apply species-specific considerations, including physiology and husbandry, to the diagnostic evaluation of and treatment plan for anorexic exotic patients