What diseases do decorative rats get? - briefly
Pet fancy rats commonly develop respiratory infections (e.g., Mycoplasma pulmonis, Sendai virus), skin parasites such as mites and lice, gastrointestinal issues like cecal dysbiosis, and neoplasms, especially mammary tumors in females. Proper hygiene, regular veterinary checks, and a balanced diet reduce the incidence of these conditions.
What diseases do decorative rats get? - in detail
Decorative rats are susceptible to many of the same illnesses as laboratory and pet strains. Respiratory infections dominate, with Mycoplasma pulmonis causing chronic rhinitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis. Secondary bacterial agents such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella spp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa often follow, producing nasal discharge, labored breathing, and lethargy.
Gastrointestinal disturbances include Salmonella enterica, which leads to diarrhea, weight loss, and dehydration. Parasites such as Hymenolepis nana (dwarf tapeworm) and coccidia (Isospora spp.) cause intermittent diarrhea and poor growth. Viral agents are rare but can involve Sendai virus, resulting in fever, sneezing, and anorexia.
Dermatological conditions appear as mange caused by the mite Myobia musculi, producing hair loss and intense itching. Fungal infections, particularly dermatophytes (Microsporum spp.), present as circular alopecic patches with crusting. External parasites like fleas and lice also affect skin integrity.
Neoplastic diseases are common in aged ornamental rats. Pituitary adenomas produce progressive weight gain, abdominal distention, and endocrine disturbances. Mammary tumors, both benign and malignant, develop in females, presenting as palpable masses. Lymphosarcoma may manifest as enlarged lymph nodes and systemic weakness.
Metabolic disorders include type 2 diabetes mellitus, characterized by polyuria, polydipsia, and weight loss despite increased appetite. Renal failure, often secondary to chronic infection or neoplasia, leads to polyuria, dehydration, and elevated blood urea nitrogen.
Zoonotic pathogens pose a risk to handlers. Leptospira interrogans causes leptospirosis, presenting with fever, headache, and hepatic involvement. Streptobacillus moniliformis, the agent of rat‑bite fever, can be transmitted through bites or scratches, producing fever, rash, and arthralgia.
Typical clinical signs across conditions are reduced activity, abnormal grooming, weight fluctuations, respiratory noises, and changes in fecal consistency. Diagnosis relies on physical examination, radiography, culture, PCR, and histopathology. Effective management includes quarantine of new arrivals, strict sanitation, regular health monitoring, and prompt veterinary intervention.
Preventive measures: HEPA‑filtered cages, low‑dust bedding, balanced diet, routine cleaning, and vaccination where available (e.g., for Mycoplasma). Early detection and treatment improve outcomes and reduce the spread of infectious agents to other rodents and humans.