What should I do if a rat has a swollen belly? - briefly
Immediately isolate the rat, contact a veterinarian, and follow professional advice on supportive care such as temperature regulation and possible fluid therapy. Avoid home remedies, as abdominal swelling often signals serious conditions like blockage or infection.
What should I do if a rat has a swollen belly? - in detail
If a rat exhibits a noticeably enlarged abdomen, immediate assessment is required. Observe the animal for additional signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, abnormal stool, respiratory difficulty, or changes in behavior. Record the duration of swelling and any recent dietary or environmental changes.
Perform a basic physical examination:
- Gently palpate the abdomen to determine firmness or tenderness.
- Check body temperature with a rectal thermometer; normal range is 99‑101 °F (37.2‑38.3 °C).
- Examine the fur and skin for lesions, parasites, or discoloration.
- Assess hydration by skin turgor and mucous membrane moisture.
Potential causes include:
- Gastrointestinal obstruction or impaction.
- Pregnancy in females.
- Fluid accumulation (ascites) due to liver, heart, or kidney disease.
- Tumors or neoplastic growths.
- Severe infection or peritonitis.
Given the breadth of possible etiologies, professional veterinary evaluation is essential. Contact a veterinarian experienced with small mammals promptly; delay can worsen prognosis.
While awaiting professional care, provide supportive measures:
- Ensure easy access to fresh water; consider offering electrolytes formulated for rodents.
- Offer a bland diet such as boiled chicken and plain rice in small, frequent portions if the rat is willing to eat.
- Maintain a warm, quiet environment to reduce stress.
- Avoid administering over‑the‑counter medications without veterinary guidance.
Diagnostic procedures a veterinarian may employ:
- Radiographs to visualize gas patterns, masses, or foreign bodies.
- Ultrasound to assess fluid accumulation and organ structure.
- Blood work to evaluate organ function, infection markers, and electrolyte balance.
- Fecal analysis for parasites or abnormal flora.
Treatment options depend on the underlying cause:
- Surgical intervention for obstructive or neoplastic conditions.
- Antibiotic therapy for bacterial infections.
- Fluid therapy to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
- Supportive care for pregnant females, including monitoring for complications.
Prognosis varies widely; early detection and intervention improve outcomes. Continuous monitoring after treatment is advisable to detect recurrence or secondary issues.