What should you do if a rat has pneumonia? - briefly
Isolate the rat, keep it warm and well‑hydrated, and promptly consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy. Monitor breathing and provide supportive care until treatment is underway.
What should you do if a rat has pneumonia? - in detail
When a pet rat shows signs of respiratory infection, act promptly. Observe for labored breathing, nasal discharge, wheezing, lethargy, reduced appetite, or fever. Record the duration and severity of each symptom.
- Isolate the affected animal to prevent spread to cage mates.
- Keep the enclosure warm (22‑24 °C) and minimize drafts.
- Provide a humid environment by placing a shallow dish of water near the cage or using a low‑intensity humidifier for 15–20 minutes twice daily.
- Offer easily digestible foods—softened pellets, fresh fruit, or a small amount of boiled egg—to encourage intake.
- Ensure continuous access to fresh water; consider a syringe‑driven drip if the rat refuses to drink.
Contact a qualified exotic‑animal veterinarian without delay. Request a full physical examination, chest radiographs, and, if possible, a bacterial culture from tracheal swabs to identify the causative agent. The veterinarian may prescribe:
- Broad‑spectrum antibiotics (e.g., enrofloxacin or doxycycline) adjusted after culture results.
- Anti‑inflammatory medication to reduce pulmonary swelling.
- Bronchodilators or mucolytic agents for airway clearance.
Administer all medications exactly as directed, using a calibrated oral syringe or subcutaneous injection if oral intake is insufficient. Monitor the rat’s respiratory rate, temperature, and behavior at least twice daily. Note any improvement or deterioration; report adverse reactions to the clinician immediately.
Supportive care continues until the animal regains normal activity and breathing patterns. After recovery, enhance the habitat to lower recurrence risk: maintain clean bedding, provide adequate ventilation without drafts, avoid overcrowding, and keep the temperature stable. Regular health checks with a specialist will help detect early respiratory issues in the future.