How can I tell if a rat has rabies? - briefly
Look for excessive salivation, foaming at the mouth, aggression or uncharacteristic fearfulness, paralysis, and sudden inability to move; these symptoms, especially combined, suggest rabies infection. If any of these signs appear, treat the animal as potentially rabid and seek veterinary or public‑health assistance immediately.
How can I tell if a rat has rabies? - in detail
Rats that are infected with rabies display a predictable sequence of clinical signs. Early changes often involve nervous system dysfunction, such as unsteady gait, tremors, or an inability to maintain balance. The animal may become unusually timid or, conversely, display sudden aggression toward humans or other animals. Excessive salivation, foaming at the mouth, and difficulty swallowing are common as the virus progresses to affect the salivary glands.
Later stages are marked by paralysis, beginning in the hind limbs and spreading forward. The rat may be unable to move, exhibit a rigid posture, or show generalized weakness. Respiratory distress, irregular breathing, and a drop in body temperature frequently accompany terminal disease. These symptoms usually appear within a few days to a week after initial exposure.
To assess a suspect rodent, follow these steps:
- Isolate the animal in a secure enclosure to prevent bites or scratches.
- Observe behavior for signs of agitation, fearlessness, or sudden hostility.
- Check for drooling, difficulty swallowing, or visible foam around the mouth.
- Examine locomotion for ataxia, stumbling, or inability to climb.
- Look for progressive loss of muscle control, especially in the hindquarters.
If any of these indicators are present, contact a licensed veterinarian or local public health authority immediately. Professional assessment typically involves euthanasia followed by laboratory analysis of brain tissue using the fluorescent antibody test, the definitive method for confirming rabies infection.
Precautions for handlers include wearing thick gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection. Avoid direct contact with saliva, urine, or feces. Disinfect surfaces with a virucidal solution after handling. Vaccination of domestic pets and avoidance of feeding wild rodents reduce the risk of transmission.