How can you treat Mycoplasma infection in a rat? - briefly
Effective treatment requires a macrolide antibiotic (e.g., enrofloxacin or tylosin) administered according to veterinary dosing guidelines, together with rigorous biosecurity to eliminate sources of infection. Supportive care should include optimized nutrition, stress reduction, and regular monitoring of respiratory health.
How can you treat Mycoplasma infection in a rat? - in detail
Mycoplasma infection in laboratory rats requires a systematic approach that combines accurate diagnosis, targeted antimicrobial therapy, and supportive husbandry measures.
Accurate diagnosis begins with clinical observation of respiratory signs such as nasal discharge, sneezing, or labored breathing. Confirmatory testing includes polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on nasal swabs, culture on specialized media, or serology for specific antibodies. Early identification enables prompt intervention and limits spread within the colony.
Antimicrobial therapy targets the organism’s lack of a cell wall; β‑lactam antibiotics are ineffective. Preferred agents include:
- Enrofloxacin – administered orally or via drinking water at 10 mg/kg once daily for 14 days.
- Tilmicosin – delivered subcutaneously at 5 mg/kg once daily for 7 days; effective against respiratory isolates.
- Doxycycline – provided in feed at 30 ppm for 21 days; useful when resistance to fluoroquinolones is suspected.
Dosage adjustments may be necessary for pregnant or immunocompromised animals. Monitoring plasma concentrations ensures therapeutic levels while minimizing toxicity.
Supportive care enhances recovery. Ensure unrestricted access to fresh water and high‑quality pelleted diet. Maintain ambient temperature between 20 °C and 24 °C and relative humidity below 60 %. Provide nesting material to reduce stress. If dyspnea is severe, administer supplemental oxygen and consider bronchodilators such as terbutaline (0.5 mg/kg subcutaneously) on an as‑needed basis.
Follow‑up includes repeat PCR testing after completion of therapy to confirm eradication. Clinical re‑evaluation should occur weekly for at least four weeks post‑treatment. Persistent signs warrant extended antimicrobial courses or combination therapy.
Preventive strategies focus on biosecurity. Implement quarantine for all new arrivals, conduct PCR screening before integration, and apply strict barrier practices. Regular cage cleaning with disinfectants effective against Mycoplasma (e.g., 0.1 % sodium hypochlorite) reduces environmental load. Personnel should wear dedicated gloves and gowns when handling infected animals to avoid cross‑contamination.
Comprehensive management integrates diagnosis, appropriate antimicrobials, supportive husbandry, and rigorous prevention to resolve Mycoplasma infection in rats and safeguard colony health.