Small Pets — Stiff Joints & Mobility Support

Help rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, mice and chinchillas move more comfortably with gentle, species-aware choices. Curated by Canine & Co for South African homes, this collection combines joint-support supplements, comfort bedding and smart habitat tweaks to ease everyday stiffness without stress.

What you’ll find

• Joint supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, green-lipped mussel and collagen where suitable.
• Omega-3 oils: Daily EPA/DHA support for general comfort and skin/coat health.
• Orthopaedic comfort: Fleece liners, plush pads and warm, draft-free hideaways.
• Ramps & steps: Low-slope, non-slip routes with side rails to reduce jumping.
• Non-slip mats: Traction for feeding zones, ramps and high-traffic areas.
• Low-entry gear: Shallow bowls and high-back, low-entry litter/loo trays to make access easy.
• Heat/cool pads: Species-appropriate temperature comfort for sore or senior pets.
• Grooming & nail tools: Short, safe trims to improve posture and gait.

Pick by pet

• Rabbits & Guinea Pigs: Fleece bedding, low ramps and a low-entry loo. Keep nails short; manage weight with measured pellets + unlimited hay (herbivores). Vitamin C is essential for guinea pigs.
• Chinchillas: Cool, well-ventilated habitat; stable, closely spaced ledges; soft pads on landings. Avoid heat build-up—use cooling aids in hot weather.
• Hamsters: Solid-surface wheel sized for a flat back, not arched; soft nesting and easy-reach water/bowl height.
• Rats & Mice: Add hammocks, ladders with gentle angles and non-slip routes between levels; offer padded rest spots.

Daily comfort routine

• Soft, dry footing: Fleece or low-dust paper bedding; keep toilet corners dry to prevent slips and urine scald.
• Gentle movement: Short, frequent potters or foraging sessions instead of big jumps or long climbs.
• Weight check: Weigh weekly; adjust portions to maintain a lean, comfortable body condition.
• Nail trims: Tiny, frequent trims to improve stability; use styptic on hand.
• Water & food access: Raise bowls slightly or bring them closer to favourite rest spots.

Habitat tweaks that help

• Install low-slope ramps with side rails and textured surfaces.
• Place pads under landings and beside hides to cushion joints.
• Offer multiple hides at ground level to reduce climbing for rest.
• Keep the environment draft-free; add warmth in winter and cooling in hot months (species-appropriate).

Safe use

• Dose by weight and follow labels; introduce one supplement at a time.
• Never use human/dog/cat pain meds unless prescribed by an exotics veterinarian.
• Heat/cool pads: cover with fabric, check frequently and provide space to move off the pad.

When to see an exotics vet

• Sudden lameness, hot/swollen joints or obvious pain (hunched posture, teeth grinding, refusal to move).
• Reduced appetite/pooing in herbivores (potential emergency), weight loss or lethargy.
• Ongoing difficulty reaching food/water or grooming despite habitat changes.

Use filters to choose by species, comfort gear and price. Order online for fast delivery anywhere in South Africa— and build a kinder, cushiony setup that helps small pets stay mobile and content.