What should be done if a rat catches a cold? - briefly
If a pet rat exhibits cold symptoms, maintain a warm, dry cage, provide fresh water and nutritious food, and promptly consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What should be done if a rat catches a cold? - in detail
If a pet rat shows signs of a respiratory infection, immediate attention is required. Begin by separating the affected animal from others to prevent spread. Provide a warm, draft‑free enclosure; raise ambient temperature by 2–3 °C using a low‑wattage heat lamp or heating pad placed beneath the cage, ensuring the rat can move away if it becomes too hot.
Offer easily digestible, high‑calorie foods such as soft boiled egg, plain yogurt, or commercial rat formula. Keep water fresh and accessible; add a few drops of electrolytes if dehydration is suspected. Monitor intake closely, as reduced appetite accelerates decline.
Maintain humidity at 50–60 % to ease breathing. A small ultrasonic humidifier or a shallow water dish placed near the cage can achieve this level. Clean the habitat daily, removing soiled bedding and disinfecting surfaces with a mild, rat‑safe solution to reduce bacterial load.
Observe clinical signs at least twice daily: nasal discharge, sneezing, wheezing, labored breathing, lethargy, or weight loss. Record temperature and behavior changes. If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, worsen, or if the rat exhibits open‑mouth breathing, seek veterinary evaluation promptly. A veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics (e.g., enrofloxacin) and anti‑inflammatory agents, and may perform a thoracic X‑ray to assess lung involvement.
After veterinary treatment begins, continue supportive care: maintain warmth, humidity, and nutrition; administer prescribed medication according to schedule; and limit stress by handling the rat minimally. Re‑introduce the rat to its group only after it has completed the full course of antibiotics and shows no respiratory signs for at least a week.
Regular preventive measures include providing a clean, well‑ventilated cage, avoiding sudden temperature changes, and ensuring a balanced diet rich in vitamin C–containing foods (e.g., bell pepper, kale) to support immune function.