Prairie Dogs
Prairie Dogs Facts
Scientific Name Cynomys ludovicianus
Life Span 5-10 years
Environment
Temperature Range 68F - 72F
Relative Humidity Range 30-70%
Sexual Maturity 2 - 3 years
Estrous Cycle 2 - 3 weeks
Gestation Period 30-35 days
Breeding Season January – March
Weaning Age 6-7 weeks
Prairie dogs are heavy bodied rodents, which have been referred to as burrowing squirrels. They are native to the grassy plains of western North America from the Dakotas south to northern Mexico. Of the five species of prairie dog (Cynomys spp.), which reside in the United States, the black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) is the species most commonly kept as pets.
In the natural state, prairie dogs reside in colonies. Prairie dogs form extensive and elaborate burrows within which they live. They tend to be active during the day, unlike many other rodents, which prefer the nightlife. These rodents are gray to brown in color, with an adult body weight of two to three pounds on average.

Diet
The natural diet for prairie dogs consists primarily of grasses. In captivity, the diet should be comprised of rabbit pellets and timothy or other grass hay. The rabbit pellets should be rationed at one-fourth to one-third cup per animal daily, in an effort to reduce the problem with obesity. Timothy or grass hay, on the other hand, can be offered free choice. Alfalfa hay should not be given due to its high calcium to phosphorus ratio, which may predispose the animal to metabolic problems with long-term usage. Supplements to the diet may consist of some fruits, breads and grains; but always in moderation.

As with any animal, a clean, fresh source of water must be available at all times. This can be provided with the typical rodent water bottle equipped with sipper tube. A water bowl may be used, but is less desirable due to greater chance of contamination with food, bedding and fecal waste. The water bottle should be cleaned and thoroughly washed daily.

Handling
The proper procedure for lifting a prairie dog is to wrap one hand around its chest while supporting the hindquarters with your other hand. Be careful when working around their head and face, for they may bite when disturbed or agitated. In addition, they may have sharp claws used for digging, which may serve as weapons when threatened. An old bath towel may be used to wrap around the animal for better control and further protection from these claws. Unlike most rodents, prairie dogs have very little loose skin over their neck to scruff for restraint. When handled frequently, these animals may become rather docile and easy to work with.
© 2004 Midwest Bird and Exotic Animal Hospital