How can you tell a rat is sick? - briefly
Observe lethargy, reduced food intake, ruffled or missing fur, nasal or eye discharge, labored breathing, diarrhea, and rapid weight loss; any of these signs suggest illness and require veterinary evaluation.
How can you tell a rat is sick? - in detail
Rats rarely hide disease; observable changes often signal health problems.
A sudden reduction in food or water intake is a primary indicator. Weight loss exceeding 5 % of body mass within a week suggests metabolic or gastrointestinal issues.
Altered grooming behavior provides clues. Excessive self‑cleaning, hair loss, or a dull, unkempt coat points to dermatological infections, parasites, or stress‑related disorders. Conversely, a lack of grooming leaves fur matted and oily, indicating possible pain or systemic illness.
Respiratory signs are critical. Open‑mouth breathing, wheezing, nasal discharge, or frequent sneezing denote upper‑respiratory infections, which can progress rapidly in rodents. Observe the chest for rapid or shallow breaths; a normal rat breathes 70–120 times per minute at rest.
Eye and ear examinations reveal additional information. Redness, swelling, discharge, or crusting around the eyes or ears may accompany infections, trauma, or vitamin deficiencies.
Mobility changes are telling. Reluctance to move, limping, or a hunched posture indicate musculoskeletal pain, arthritis, or abdominal discomfort. A rat that hides excessively, avoids social interaction, or displays aggression may be experiencing pain or neurological impairment.
Excretory patterns should be monitored. Diarrhea, blood‑tinged urine, or a decrease in fecal output can signal gastrointestinal, renal, or urinary tract disease.
Skin assessment includes checking for lumps, ulcerations, or abnormal coloration. Tumors, abscesses, and mite infestations appear as raised or inflamed areas; prompt veterinary evaluation is required.
Temperature measurement, though challenging, can be performed with a rectal probe. A rectal temperature above 103 °F (39.5 °C) or below 99 °F (37.2 °C) warrants immediate attention.
When any of these signs appear, the following steps are recommended:
- Isolate the affected rat to prevent disease spread.
- Record the onset, duration, and severity of each symptom.
- Provide a quiet, stress‑free environment with easy access to fresh water and soft food.
- Contact a veterinarian experienced with small mammals for a physical exam, laboratory diagnostics (fecal float, blood work, radiographs), and appropriate treatment.
Regular health checks—weekly observation of weight, coat condition, and behavior—enable early detection and improve prognosis.