Gastrointestinal Surgery in Other Small Mammals

This review summarizes recent advancements in gastrointestinal surgery in pet ferrets, rodents, and African pygmy hedgehogs, emphasizing species-specific perioperative considerations and evolving surgical approaches. Key innovations include adapted minimally invasive techniques, systematic full-thickness biopsies for unexplained gastrointestinal disease, and updated management of uncommon conditions such as gastric dilatation-volvulus, colonic obstruction, and congenital fistulas. The article highlights the particular susceptibility of hindgut-fermenting herbivores to postoperative ileus and dysbiosis, underscoring the need for gentle tissue handling, multimodal analgesia, early enteral nutrition, and prudent antimicrobial use. Standardized postoperative monitoring protocols are recommended to optimize outcomes across species.