What illnesses can domestic rats have? - briefly
Pet rats can suffer from respiratory infections (e.g., Mycoplasma pneumonia), gastrointestinal parasites (such as pinworms), skin disorders (including mites and fungal dermatitis), and systemic diseases like rat coronaviruses and various tumors.
What illnesses can domestic rats have? - in detail
Domestic rats are susceptible to a range of bacterial, viral, parasitic, and neoplastic conditions. Recognizing clinical signs and understanding typical etiologies enable effective management and prevention.
Common bacterial infections include:
- Salmonellosis – presents with diarrhea, weight loss, and occasional fever; diagnosis by culture of feces or blood; treatment with appropriate antibiotics such as enrofloxacin.
- Streptobacillus moniliformis (rat‑bite fever) – transmitted through bites or scratches; causes fever, rash, arthralgia in humans; rodent carriers often asymptomatic; control through wound care and antibiotic prophylaxis.
- Mycoplasma pulmonis – causes respiratory disease (snuffles); signs include nasal discharge, sneezing, labored breathing; confirmed by PCR or culture; treated with doxycycline or enrofloxacin; vaccination not available, hygiene essential.
Viral diseases of note:
- Sendai virus – highly contagious respiratory pathogen; symptoms mirror mycoplasma infection; polymerase chain reaction confirms infection; supportive care and isolation reduce spread.
- Rat coronavirus (RCV) – leads to enteric and respiratory signs; detection by PCR; management relies on strict biosecurity and supportive therapy.
Parasitic infestations affect health and research outcomes:
- Protozoa – Giardia and Coccidia cause diarrhea, dehydration, and poor growth; fecal flotation identifies oocysts; metronidazole or sulfonamides are effective.
- Helminths – Syphacia muris (pinworm) and Trichuris muris (whipworm) produce anal irritation and weight loss; fecal examination reveals eggs; ivermectin or pyrantel pamoate provide cure.
- Ectoparasites – mites (Myobia musculinus) and fleas cause pruritus, alopecia, anemia; skin scrapings confirm presence; topical ivermectin or selamectin are standard treatments.
Neoplastic conditions are frequent in aged laboratory and pet rats:
- Mammary adenocarcinoma – manifests as palpable masses in the thoracic region; histopathology confirms diagnosis; surgical excision combined with chemotherapy offers best prognosis.
- Pituitary adenoma – leads to endocrine disruption, weight gain, and reduced activity; MRI or necropsy identifies tumor; treatment options limited, hormonal therapy may alleviate symptoms.
- Lymphoma – presents with lymph node enlargement, lethargy, and organ infiltration; diagnosis via biopsy; chemotherapy protocols adapted from other rodent species are employed.
Additional health concerns include:
- Dental malocclusion – overgrown incisors cause difficulty eating, weight loss, and facial deformities; regular trimming or provision of appropriate chew objects prevents progression.
- Metabolic bone disease – results from calcium or vitamin D deficiency; signs include skeletal deformities and fractures; corrective diet and supplementation reverse condition.
Preventive measures:
- Maintain clean cages, change bedding regularly, and provide fresh water.
- Implement quarantine for new arrivals, monitor for respiratory signs, and conduct periodic health screenings.
- Use balanced commercial rat diets enriched with calcium, vitamin D, and adequate protein.
- Apply routine ectoparasite control and deworming schedules according to veterinary recommendations.
Early identification of symptoms, laboratory confirmation, and targeted therapy form the cornerstone of effective disease management in domestic rats.