A rat has rhinitis – what should you do? - briefly
If your rat exhibits nasal discharge, sneezing, or difficulty breathing, keep it in a warm, low‑dust enclosure, maintain moderate humidity, and promptly consult a veterinarian for appropriate antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory treatment. Provide fresh water and soft food while minimizing stress.
A rat has rhinitis – what should you do? - in detail
When a pet rat exhibits sneezing, nasal discharge, or labored breathing, it is likely suffering from an upper‑respiratory infection affecting the nasal passages. Recognize the condition promptly, because untreated inflammation can progress to pneumonia or chronic sinusitis.
First, isolate the affected animal to prevent spread to cage mates. Provide a quiet, stress‑free environment with stable temperature (20‑22 °C) and adequate ventilation without drafts. Monitor temperature and humidity; excessive dryness worsens mucosal irritation, while high humidity encourages bacterial growth.
Next, assess the severity:
- Mild symptoms (occasional sneezing, thin clear discharge) – supportive care may suffice.
- Moderate to severe signs (persistent nasal crusting, thick yellow/green discharge, wheezing, lethargy, loss of appetite) – veterinary intervention is required.
If veterinary care is indicated, the clinician will typically:
- Perform a physical exam and possibly radiographs to detect sinus involvement.
- Collect a nasal swab or lavage for bacterial culture and sensitivity testing.
- Prescribe appropriate antibiotics based on culture results; empiric choices often include enrofloxacin or trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole, adjusted for rat metabolism.
- Recommend a short course of anti‑inflammatory medication, such as meloxicam, to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Advise supportive fluids and a high‑calorie diet to counteract reduced intake.
While awaiting treatment, maintain cage hygiene. Replace bedding daily with low‑dust, absorbent material (paper‑based or aspen shavings). Clean food dishes and water bottles thoroughly. Use a saline nasal rinse applied with a fine syringe (0.9 % sterile saline, 0.1 ml per nostril) to loosen crusts, but avoid forcing fluid deep into the nasal cavity.
Preventive measures include:
- Regular health checks for early detection of respiratory signs.
- Quarantine of new arrivals for at least two weeks.
- Avoidance of sudden temperature changes and drafts.
- Provision of a balanced diet rich in vitamin C and antioxidants to support immune function.
- Minimizing stressors such as overcrowding, loud noises, and handling excess.
If symptoms improve within 48–72 hours of initiating therapy, continue the prescribed medication for the full course to prevent relapse. Re‑evaluate the rat after treatment; persistent discharge or recurrent sneezing warrants a follow‑up examination, possibly including imaging or referral to a specialist in exotic animal medicine.