How do you check a rat's health? - briefly
«Weight», «fur quality» and «eye clarity» are primary visual indicators; rapid breathing, nasal discharge and abnormal stool signal illness. A brief physical exam includes palpating the abdomen, assessing limb mobility and confirming normal food and water consumption.
How do you check a rat's health? - in detail
Assessing a rat’s wellbeing requires a systematic physical and behavioral examination, followed by targeted diagnostic procedures when abnormalities appear.
A thorough visual inspection begins with the coat. A glossy, evenly colored fur indicates proper nutrition and grooming; patches of alopecia, dullness, or excessive matting suggest dermatological issues or parasitic infestation. The skin should be supple, free of lesions, scabs, or ulcers. Examine the eyes for clarity and brightness; discharge, cloudiness, or redness signal ocular infection. The nostrils must be unobstructed; nasal discharge points to respiratory problems.
Evaluate the oral cavity. Healthy incisors are continuously growing, displaying a bright orange‑yellow hue and a smooth, sharp edge. Over‑grown or uneven teeth cause difficulty eating and weight loss. Check the gums for a pink color and absence of swelling; pale or cyanotic gums indicate anemia or circulatory compromise.
Observe respiration. Normal breathing is quiet and regular, with a rate of 70‑120 breaths per minute at rest. Audible wheezing, rattling, or increased effort suggests pulmonary disease. Palpate the abdomen gently; a soft, non‑distended belly denotes normal gastrointestinal function. Note fecal consistency and frequency; diarrhea, blood, or mucus are warning signs.
Measure body weight weekly using a calibrated scale. Stable weight reflects adequate intake; sudden loss exceeding 10 % of body mass warrants immediate veterinary attention. Record body condition on a scale of 1 (emaciated) to 5 (obese) to monitor nutritional status.
When physical signs raise concern, employ diagnostic tools:
- Temperature measurement with a rectal probe; normal range 37.5‑39 °C.
- Heart rate assessment via auscultation; typical rate 300‑500 beats per minute.
- Blood work including complete blood count and biochemical panel to detect infection, organ dysfunction, or metabolic disorders.
- Fecal flotation and microscopic examination to identify parasites such as pinworms or coccidia.
- Urinalysis for protein, glucose, and bacterial presence.
- Radiography or ultrasound for internal organ evaluation, especially in cases of respiratory distress or abdominal swelling.
Regular health checks, ideally monthly for young rats and quarterly for adults, enable early detection of disease, promote longevity, and maintain optimal welfare.