What diseases affect pet rats? - briefly
Common illnesses in pet rats include respiratory infections (e.g., Mycoplasma pulmonis), gastrointestinal parasites such as pinworms, viral diseases like Sendai virus and rat coronavirus, skin disorders such as ringtail, and various tumors, especially mammary adenomas.
What diseases affect pet rats? - in detail
Pet rats are susceptible to a range of bacterial, viral, parasitic, and neoplastic conditions. Recognizing clinical signs and understanding typical pathogens enable timely intervention and improve outcomes.
Common respiratory problems include Mycoplasma pulmonis infection and Sendai virus. Symptoms such as nasal discharge, sneezing, labored breathing, and wheezing indicate involvement of the upper or lower airways. Treatment often combines antibiotics (e.g., enrofloxacin) for bacterial agents and supportive care; viral infections lack specific antivirals and rely on isolation and hygiene to prevent spread.
Gastrointestinal disorders frequently arise from Salmonella, Clostridium difficile, and parasitic infestations (pinworms, coccidia, Giardia). Diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal cramping are typical. Diagnostic fecal flotation or PCR guides therapy; antibiotics, antiparasitics, and fluid replacement are standard measures.
Skin conditions encompass mite infestations (Radfordia spp.), fungal infections (dermatophytosis), and ulcerative dermatitis. Hair loss, pruritus, crusting, and erythema signal cutaneous disease. Topical acaricides, antifungal creams, and environmental cleaning eradicate ectoparasites and fungi.
Metabolic abnormalities, notably hypocalcemia and vitamin D deficiency, result from inadequate diet or limited sunlight exposure. Tetanic seizures, muscle tremors, and lethargy suggest electrolyte imbalance. Corrective supplementation of calcium gluconate and vitamin D3 restores normal physiology.
Neoplastic lesions appear as mammary adenocarcinomas, lymphomas, and fibrosarcomas. Palpable masses, rapid weight loss, and organ enlargement indicate malignancy. Histopathology confirms diagnosis; surgical excision and chemotherapy are treatment options, though prognosis varies.
Cardiovascular disease, such as cardiomyopathy, presents with exercise intolerance, cyanosis, and ascites. Echocardiography identifies structural defects; diuretics and ACE inhibitors manage congestive signs.
Prevention relies on strict cage sanitation, regular health monitoring, balanced diet, and quarantine of new arrivals. Vaccination is unavailable for most rat pathogens; therefore, biosecurity and prompt clinical assessment remain the primary defenses.