How should you treat a rat's red eye? - briefly
First, gently rinse the eye with sterile saline and apply a veterinary‑approved ophthalmic antibiotic ointment. If redness does not improve within 24–48 hours or worsens, seek professional veterinary care.
How should you treat a rat's red eye? - in detail
Redness of a rat’s eye often signals irritation, infection, or injury and requires prompt attention. Begin by isolating the animal in a clean cage to prevent further contamination. Conduct a visual inspection: note discharge color, swelling, or corneal opacity. If the eye appears cloudy, ulcerated, or the rat shows signs of pain (e.g., excessive blinking, head tilt), veterinary evaluation is mandatory.
For mild conjunctival inflammation without discharge, apply a sterile saline rinse. Use a 0.9% sodium chloride solution, gently flush the affected eye with a syringe fitted with a soft tip. Repeat the rinse two to three times, ensuring the solution covers the entire ocular surface. After rinsing, dry the area with a lint‑free gauze, avoiding direct contact with the cornea.
If bacterial infection is suspected—indicated by purulent discharge or rapid progression—administer a topical ophthalmic antibiotic prescribed by a veterinarian. Common choices include:
- Chloramphenicol ophthalmic ointment, 0.5%
- Enrofloxacin eye drops, 0.3%
Apply the medication according to the dosage schedule (typically 2–3 drops or a thin layer of ointment every 8–12 hours). Use a fresh sterile applicator for each dose to prevent cross‑contamination.
In cases of allergic or inflammatory reactions, a short course of a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory eye drop (e.g., diclofenac) may reduce swelling. Steroid eye drops should be reserved for severe inflammation and only under veterinary supervision, as they can impede healing if misused.
Supportive care includes:
- Providing a humidified environment to prevent ocular drying.
- Ensuring the rat’s diet is balanced, with adequate vitamin A to support ocular health.
- Monitoring for systemic signs such as fever, lethargy, or respiratory distress, which may indicate a broader infection requiring systemic antibiotics.
Re‑evaluate the eye after 24–48 hours. Improvement should be evident: reduced redness, clearer cornea, and diminished discharge. Persistent or worsening symptoms necessitate immediate veterinary intervention, as underlying conditions like keratitis, uveitis, or traumatic injury may require advanced treatment.