What should you do if a rat's eye is inflamed? - briefly
If a rodent shows signs of ocular inflammation, isolate it and contact a qualified veterinarian immediately. Do not attempt home treatments beyond a gentle sterile saline flush, as improper care can worsen the condition.
What should you do if a rat's eye is inflamed? - in detail
If a rat shows signs of ocular inflammation, begin with a careful visual inspection. Look for redness, swelling, discharge, cloudiness, or a change in pupil size. Note any accompanying symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, or lethargy, which may indicate a systemic infection.
- Isolate the animal – move the affected rat to a separate cage to prevent stress on the group and to limit the spread of potential infectious agents.
- Create a clean environment – replace bedding with fresh, dust‑free material, and ensure the cage is free of ammonia buildup. Maintain humidity at 40‑60 % to support healing.
- Gentle cleaning – using a sterile saline solution or a veterinarian‑approved ocular wash, flush the eye with a few drops to remove debris. Apply the solution with a clean pipette or cotton swab, avoiding direct contact with the cornea.
- Seek professional veterinary care – contact an exotic‑animal veterinarian promptly. Provide a detailed history, including diet, recent cage changes, and any exposure to other rodents or wild animals.
- Follow prescribed treatment – administer topical antibiotics, anti‑inflammatory drops, or systemic medication exactly as instructed. Do not use over‑the‑counter human eye drops without veterinary approval.
- Monitor progress – check the eye twice daily for reduction in redness and discharge. Record any changes in behavior, appetite, or weight. If symptoms worsen within 24–48 hours, return to the veterinarian.
- Prevent recurrence – ensure proper nutrition with adequate vitamin A and omega‑3 fatty acids, keep the cage clean, and screen new arrivals for eye disease before introduction.
Prompt isolation, sterile cleaning, veterinary evaluation, and adherence to prescribed therapy are essential to resolve ocular inflammation and protect the overall health of the rat colony.