What are common rat diseases and how are they treated? - briefly
Rats commonly develop respiratory infections (e.g., Mycoplasma pulmonis), bacterial septicemia, parasitic infestations (Giardia, pinworms), and viral illnesses such as Sendai virus. Treatment includes targeted antibiotics, antiparasitic medications, supportive care, and vaccination when applicable.
What are common rat diseases and how are they treated? - in detail
Rats are susceptible to a range of bacterial, viral, parasitic, and neoplastic conditions that can affect laboratory colonies, pet populations, and wild communities. Prompt identification and appropriate therapeutic measures reduce morbidity and prevent spread.
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Salmonellosis – infection by Salmonella spp. manifests as diarrhea, weight loss, and lethargy. Treatment relies on systemic antibiotics such as enrofloxacin or trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole, administered orally or via injection, for a minimum of 7‑10 days. Supportive fluid therapy mitigates dehydration.
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Streptobacillosis (rat‑bite fever) – caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis. Clinical signs include fever, arthralgia, and skin lesions. Empirical therapy with penicillin G or ampicillin, 30 mg/kg intraperitoneally every 12 hours, is standard; doxycycline serves as an alternative for penicillin‑allergic individuals.
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Mycoplasma pulmonis infection – chronic respiratory disease characterized by nasal discharge, sneezing, and pulmonary consolidation. Tetracycline‑class antibiotics (doxycycline 5 mg/kg subcutaneously daily) improve symptoms; long‑term management may require repeated courses and environmental sanitation.
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Hantavirus infection – zoonotic viral disease presenting with hemorrhagic fever or pulmonary syndrome. No specific antiviral therapy exists; supportive care includes oxygen supplementation, fluid balance, and intensive monitoring. Preventive measures focus on rodent control and personal protective equipment.
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Rat coronavirus (RCV) – causes epizootic catarrhal enteritis with watery diarrhea and anorexia. No antiviral agents are approved; management emphasizes isolation of affected animals, rigorous disinfection with chlorine‑based solutions, and provision of electrolyte‑balanced fluids.
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Lymphoma and other neoplasms – malignant growths often present as abdominal masses or subcutaneous nodules. Chemotherapeutic protocols (e.g., cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone) are adapted from canine oncology regimens, with dosage adjustments for rodent metabolism. Surgical excision may be feasible for localized tumors.
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Ectoparasitic infestations – mites (Myobia spp.) and lice (Polyplax spp.) cause pruritus, alopecia, and anemia. Topical ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg) or systemic selamectin (6 mg/kg) applied weekly for three applications eliminates infestations. Environmental treatment with pyrethrin sprays reduces reinfestation risk.
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Endoparasitic infections – Hymenolepis nana (dwarf tapeworm) and Syphacia spp. (pinworms) produce gastrointestinal irritation and weight loss. Praziquantel (5 mg/kg orally) effectively clears tapeworms; pyrantel pamoate (15 mg/kg orally) treats pinworms. Repeated dosing after 14 days addresses larval stages.
Effective disease control combines accurate diagnosis (culture, PCR, serology, or necropsy), targeted pharmacotherapy, and strict biosecurity. Regular health monitoring, quarantine of new arrivals, and sanitation of cages, bedding, and feed further limit outbreaks.