What should I do if a rat has a red eye? - briefly
Inspect the eye for injury or discharge, isolate the rat, and contact a veterinarian promptly for treatment of the «red eye».
What should I do if a rat has a red eye? - in detail
A rat with a reddened eye requires immediate evaluation. Observe the animal for additional symptoms such as discharge, swelling, behavioral changes, or signs of pain. Separate the affected individual from cage mates to prevent possible spread of infectious agents and to reduce stress.
Identify likely causes. Common etiologies include:
- Trauma resulting in corneal injury or subconjunctival hemorrhage
- Bacterial or viral conjunctivitis producing purulent or watery discharge
- Ulcerative keratitis associated with dry‑eye conditions or vitamin deficiencies
- Systemic illnesses (e.g., respiratory infection, metabolic disorders) manifesting ocular inflammation
Perform basic first‑aid steps:
- Clean the peri‑ocular area with sterile saline, avoiding direct contact with the cornea.
- Apply a warm, damp compress for 5‑10 minutes twice daily to promote drainage if discharge is present.
- Monitor temperature and appetite; loss of either indicates worsening condition.
Arrange professional veterinary assessment promptly. A veterinarian will likely:
- Conduct a thorough ophthalmic examination, possibly using fluorescein staining to detect corneal lesions.
- Collect samples of discharge for culture and sensitivity if infection is suspected.
- Prescribe appropriate medication, such as topical antibiotics, anti‑inflammatory drops, or systemic antibiotics for severe cases.
- Recommend supportive treatments, including analgesics and vitamin supplementation, to aid recovery.
Implement preventive measures after treatment:
- Maintain cage hygiene; replace bedding regularly and sanitize food and water containers.
- Provide a balanced diet rich in vitamin A and omega‑3 fatty acids to support ocular health.
- Ensure adequate humidity (45‑55 %) and avoid drafts that can dry the ocular surface.
- Conduct routine health checks to detect early signs of ocular or systemic disease.
Prompt intervention, veterinary care, and environmental management together maximize the likelihood of full recovery and reduce the risk of permanent visual impairment.