How do you treat a rat's cold? - briefly
Maintain a warm, dry environment and ensure the animal stays hydrated with fresh water or an electrolyte solution. Seek veterinary evaluation for possible antimicrobial treatment if symptoms persist.
How do you treat a rat's cold? - in detail
A rat displaying signs of a respiratory infection—sneezing, nasal discharge, reduced activity, or labored breathing—requires immediate attention. First, isolate the animal to prevent spread to cage mates. Evaluate the environment: maintain temperature between 20‑24 °C, reduce drafts, and keep humidity at 50‑60 %. Replace bedding with clean, low‑dust material; wash food and water containers thoroughly.
Supportive measures:
- Offer warm, fresh water in a droplet bottle to encourage hydration.
- Provide high‑calorie, easily digestible food such as soft pellets or a mixture of boiled egg and baby formula.
- Use a humidifier or place a shallow dish of warm water near the cage to moisten the air.
Medical intervention:
- Contact a veterinarian experienced with rodents promptly.
- Expect a physical exam and possible diagnostic tests (nasal swab, chest X‑ray) to identify bacterial, viral, or fungal agents.
- Antibiotics (e.g., enrofloxacin, trimethoprim‑sulfa) are prescribed for confirmed bacterial infection; dosage is weight‑based and administered orally or subcutaneously.
- Antifungal agents (e.g., itraconazole) are indicated only after laboratory confirmation of fungal involvement.
- Symptomatic relief may include a low‑dose bronchodilator or mucolytic, prescribed by the vet.
Monitoring:
- Check temperature, respiration rate, and appetite twice daily.
- Observe for worsening symptoms: increased nasal discharge, coughing, or lethargy.
- Continue treatment for the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve.
Preventive steps:
- Clean cage weekly; disinfect with a rodent‑safe solution.
- Avoid overcrowding; keep no more than 2‑3 rats per 450 cm² of floor space.
- Limit exposure to other animals and drafts.
Prompt isolation, environmental control, supportive care, and veterinarian‑directed medication together provide the most effective strategy for managing a rat’s respiratory illness.