What should be done if a rat's eye is suppurating? - briefly
If the eye is «suppurating», isolate the rat and seek veterinary assistance promptly. Treatment generally consists of antimicrobial eye drops or ointment, with systemic antibiotics if required.
What should be done if a rat's eye is suppurating? - in detail
When a rodent presents with a purulent discharge from the ocular region, immediate assessment and intervention are required to prevent irreversible damage and systemic infection.
First, isolate the animal to reduce stress and limit exposure to other cage mates. Conduct a visual inspection under adequate lighting, noting the extent of discharge, presence of swelling, redness, or ulceration. Record any behavioral changes such as reduced grooming or altered feeding patterns.
Next, perform a gentle ocular lavage. Use sterile physiological saline warmed to body temperature; apply a few drops to the affected eye with a sterile pipette or syringe without a needle. Avoid rubbing the eye, as this may exacerbate tissue trauma.
After cleansing, evaluate the need for antimicrobial therapy. Empirical treatment with a broad‑spectrum ophthalmic antibiotic, such as a 0.5 % chloramphenicol or 0.3 % ciprofloxacin solution, is appropriate pending culture results. Administer one drop to the affected eye three times daily for at least five days. If the discharge persists beyond 48 hours, obtain a sample using a sterile swab for bacterial culture and sensitivity testing; adjust therapy according to laboratory findings.
Supportive care includes:
- Maintaining ambient humidity at 50–60 % to prevent corneal drying.
- Providing a high‑calorie diet to offset the increased metabolic demand of infection.
- Monitoring body temperature; fever may indicate systemic spread.
If corneal opacity, ulceration, or hyphema develops, consult a veterinary ophthalmologist promptly. Surgical intervention, such as debridement or keratectomy, may be necessary for severe cases.
Finally, review husbandry conditions. Ensure cage bedding is clean, ventilation is adequate, and the diet supplies essential vitamins A and E, which support ocular health. Implement routine health checks to detect early signs of ocular disease in the colony.