What should you do if a rat is not moving? - briefly
First, check for signs of life such as breathing or a pulse. If the rodent is unresponsive, contact a licensed pest‑control or wildlife‑removal service for humane disposal.
What should you do if a rat is not moving? - in detail
When a rodent lies still, first determine whether it is alive. Observe breathing movements, listen for faint sounds, and gently prod the animal with a fingertip or a soft object. If there is no respiration or response, treat it as deceased and dispose of it according to local health regulations.
If the creature shows signs of life, follow these steps:
- Assess the environment. Ensure the area is safe for both you and the animal. Remove hazards such as open flames, chemicals, or predators.
- Check for injuries. Look for visible wounds, bleeding, or broken limbs. If trauma is evident, handle the animal with gloved hands and place it in a ventilated container.
- Provide warmth. Hypothermia can cause immobility. Position the rodent on a warm (but not hot) surface, such as a heated pad set to low temperature, or wrap it in a soft cloth.
- Hydrate carefully. Offer a drop of warm water using a syringe without a needle. Do not force liquid if the animal is unconscious.
- Monitor recovery. Watch for spontaneous movement, breathing normalization, or attempts to right itself. This period may last several minutes.
- Seek professional help. If the animal does not regain activity within a short timeframe, contact a wildlife rehabilitator, veterinarian, or pest‑control specialist trained in humane handling.
When handling any potentially diseased rodent, wear disposable gloves, wash hands thoroughly afterward, and disinfect surfaces that came into contact with the animal. This reduces the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.