How to treat pneumonia in a pet rat? - briefly
Give a veterinarian‑prescribed antibiotic (e.g., enrofloxacin or doxycycline) along with supportive care—warm environment, fluid therapy, and supplemental oxygen if respiratory distress is severe—and schedule follow‑up exams to confirm recovery.
How to treat pneumonia in a pet rat? - in detail
Treating a respiratory infection in a pet rat requires prompt veterinary evaluation, appropriate medication, and supportive care.
A veterinarian will confirm the diagnosis through physical examination, auscultation of the lungs, and, if needed, radiographs or laboratory tests. Once bacterial pneumonia is identified, the clinician typically prescribes a course of antibiotics such as enrofloxacin, doxycycline, or trimethoprim‑sulfa, administered orally or via injection according to the animal’s weight and severity of the condition.
Supportive measures enhance recovery:
- Temperature regulation: Keep the enclosure at 70‑75 °F (21‑24 °C) and protect the animal from drafts.
- Hydration: Provide fresh water and consider offering a few drops of electrolyte solution if the rat shows signs of dehydration.
- Nutrition: Offer easily digestible, high‑energy foods (soft pellets, boiled egg, or commercial rat formula) to maintain weight and immune function.
- Humidified environment: Place a shallow dish of water near a heat source or use a low‑level humidifier to ease breathing.
Monitoring continues for at least 7‑10 days. Observe respiratory rate, nasal discharge, activity level, and appetite. Any deterioration—such as increased labored breathing, loss of appetite, or lethargy—warrants immediate veterinary reassessment.
After the antibiotic regimen ends, a follow‑up examination confirms resolution of lung inflammation and prevents relapse. Maintaining clean bedding, reducing stressors, and providing a balanced diet reduce the risk of future respiratory episodes.