What should you do if a pet rat catches a cold? - briefly
First, place the rat in a warm, draft‑free cage, offer fresh water and high‑calorie food, and monitor for worsening symptoms. Then contact a veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What should you do if a pet rat catches a cold? - in detail
When a pet rat shows signs of a respiratory infection, immediate action is required to prevent complications.
First, identify typical symptoms: sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, reduced activity, loss of appetite, or labored breathing. Observe the animal several times a day to confirm the pattern.
Next, isolate the affected rat from cage mates. Place it in a clean, well‑ventilated enclosure with soft bedding, a heat source set to a constant 75–80 °F (24–27 °C), and fresh water within easy reach. Maintain humidity at 50–60 % to keep nasal passages moist.
Provide nutrient‑dense food that is easy to eat. Offer soft items such as boiled egg, plain yogurt, or mashed banana alongside the regular diet. Encourage fluid intake by adding a few drops of apple juice to water or offering diluted electrolyte solution.
Schedule a veterinary appointment promptly. A professional will perform a physical exam, possibly a chest X‑ray, and may prescribe antibiotics (e.g., enrofloxacin) or supportive medications such as bronchodilators. Follow dosage instructions precisely; do not adjust without guidance.
While awaiting treatment, implement supportive care:
- Clean nasal discharge with a warm, damp cotton swab twice daily.
- Monitor temperature and weight; record changes.
- Reduce stressors: limit handling, keep cage away from drafts, and avoid sudden noises.
- Ensure cage mates are healthy; consider a health check for the entire group.
After medication begins, continue observation for at least seven days. If symptoms persist or worsen—such as increased breathing difficulty, lethargy, or refusal to eat—contact the veterinarian immediately.
Finally, prevent future episodes by maintaining optimal husbandry: regular cage cleaning, proper ventilation, consistent ambient temperature, balanced diet, and routine health checks.