What should I do if a rat is swollen? - briefly
Separate the swollen rat from other animals, examine it for wounds or signs of infection, and keep it in a calm, stress‑free environment. Contact a qualified veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What should I do if a rat is swollen? - in detail
If a pet rat develops noticeable swelling, begin with a quick visual inspection. Look for redness, heat, discharge, or a visible wound. Determine whether the swelling is localized (e.g., a limb, abdomen) or generalized. Note any accompanying signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or labored breathing.
- Isolate the animal – place the rat in a clean, quiet cage away from other pets to reduce stress and prevent potential spread of infection.
- Check temperature – a normal rat body temperature is 99‑101 °F (37.2‑38.3 °C). Use a rectal thermometer if trained, or feel for excessive warmth, which may indicate inflammation.
- Assess for injury – gently palpate the swollen area. If the rat reacts with pain or the tissue feels firm, suspect trauma, abscess, or tumor.
- Control secondary infection – if a wound is open, rinse with sterile saline solution. Do not apply human antiseptics without veterinary advice.
- Maintain hydration and nutrition – provide fresh water and easily digestible foods. Dehydration can worsen swelling and impede healing.
- Contact a qualified exotic‑animal veterinarian – describe the location, size, duration, and any other symptoms. The professional may recommend diagnostic imaging, blood work, or a culture to identify bacterial involvement.
- Follow prescribed treatment – administer antibiotics, anti‑inflammatories, or analgesics exactly as instructed. Do not self‑medicate with human drugs.
- Monitor progress – record changes in size, color, and the rat’s behavior daily. If swelling persists after 24‑48 hours of treatment, or if the animal’s condition rapidly declines, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Prompt isolation, careful observation, and professional veterinary care are essential to address swelling in a rat effectively and to minimize the risk of complications.