How to Locate a Vet That Will Treat a Pet Tiger

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Locate a Vet Who Will Treat a Pet Tiger

Step 1:
Locate a vet before you get your tiger. It may be difficult to find one in your area. Many vets who treat exotic pets may not treat big cats or may be difficult to get to. Some vets will come to you.
Step 2:
Work out the logistics, such as how you will transport your tiger to the vet and buy appropriate traveling cages before you need them. Medical emergencies can arise quickly, even with a cub, and you need to have a plan in place before your tiger arrives. You will also need to have your cub vaccinated.
Step 3:
Ask local vets for recommendations. Humane societies, animal control offices and other big cat owners in your area may also be able to provide some assistance. You can also find national directories of big cat vets online at websites like ExoticCatz.com (see Resources below).
Step 4:
Meet all of the vets who are recommended and check out their qualifications. It is very important to find a vet who has a experience with big cats and tigers.

Know the Health Issues of Pet Tigers

Step 1:
Get your cub vaccinated on schedule. Ask your doctor to provide you with a list of recommended vaccinations and make a log of when your tiger receives each vaccination.
Step 2:
Decide whether or not to spay or neuter your tiger if you're not going to be breeding it. If you are going to breed your tiger, you will need a license from the USDA.
Step 3:
Thoroughly research the effects of declawing your tiger or having teeth removed. Know that declawing involves amputation of the first digit of every toe and can be very painful for your tiger without eliminating potential danger.
Step 4:
Be on the lookout for diet-related issues such as intestinal blockage and calcium deficiency which can lead to metabolic bone disease in tigers.

Tips & Warnings

Know that if you apply for a license through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) you will be required to provide the name of your vet on the application.
Know that preventive medical care for a tiger can be expensive, but is essential to avoid more costly conditions down the road.

Resources

Exotic Feline Vet Directory at ExoticCatz.com

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