[Gpdd] [HEALTH] Malocclusion

[warmbreath at comcast.net]

Some specialized vets are good enough to do tooth work without anesthesia, perhaps your vet would help you find one and refer Hamlet. Its also possible that, esp. if he has had antibiotics for infection that he may have developed thrush in his mouth. Have your vet check for that there are meds to treat, its like a yeast infection and is common.  If he hasn't been on antibiotics it would be wise to consider doing that, usually long term misalignment does cause an infection in an abscess or such and some piggies have to stay on antibiotics a very long time, if that is the case watch for the thrush, its visible, and is easily treatable if caught early.  If your intention is to keep him on Metacam instead of Ibuprofen be extremely careful about the dosage. Ann Evans has presented evidence that Metacam causes liver damage easily with slight overdose. Keep track of his weight carefully so the dosage can be recalibrated.  Ibuprofen has been in disfavor as some vets believe it is harder on the stomach but this is easier to catch than liver damage, it is avail over the counter and cheaper, and very effective. its best if you can get the kind without sorbitol, the best fake sweetener is Splenda, or give crushed pills. 

Good luck I hope any of this is useful for Hamlet to get well, best wishes  Sandy and Sammy