How to treat scratches in a rat? - briefly
Clean the wound with sterile saline, apply a thin layer of a veterinary‑approved antibiotic ointment, and observe for signs of infection; seek professional care if swelling, discharge, or fever develop. Keep the rat in a clean environment and restrict activity until the scratch fully heals.
How to treat scratches in a rat? - in detail
When a pet rat sustains a skin abrasion, immediate assessment is essential. Examine the wound for depth, bleeding, and foreign material. If the injury is superficial and bleeding stops within a minute, proceed with cleaning; deeper or profusely bleeding lesions require veterinary intervention.
Begin cleaning with a sterile saline solution or a dilute (0.9%) chlorhexidine rinse. Gently flush the area to remove debris; avoid harsh scrubbing that could damage fragile tissue. After rinsing, pat the site dry with a sterile gauze pad.
Apply a mild antiseptic, such as a 0.5% povidone‑iodine solution, using a cotton swab. Limit contact to the wound surface to prevent irritation of surrounding skin. Allow the antiseptic to air‑dry for a few minutes before covering.
If the abrasion is larger than 2 mm or shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, foul odor), administer a broad‑spectrum antibiotic appropriate for rodents, such as enrofloxacin or trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole, at the dosage recommended by a veterinarian. Oral dosing is preferred; injectables are reserved for severe cases.
Maintain a clean environment to reduce bacterial load. Provide fresh bedding, limit exposure to dust, and ensure the cage is disinfected regularly. Monitor the rat twice daily for changes in appetite, activity, or grooming behavior, as these may indicate systemic involvement.
For ongoing care, replace the antiseptic dressing every 12–24 hours. Once granulation tissue forms and the wound contracts, gradually reduce the frequency of cleaning, allowing natural re‑epithelialization. Do not remove scabs prematurely, as they protect the underlying tissue.
Seek professional veterinary assistance if any of the following occur: persistent bleeding, rapid swelling, fever, lethargy, or if the rat’s condition deteriorates despite home treatment. Prompt intervention prevents complications such as cellulitis, septicemia, or chronic ulceration.