What to do if a rat is not breathing?

What to do if a rat is not breathing? - briefly

First, ensure the airway is unobstructed and gently tap the chest or nose to stimulate a breath; if breathing does not resume within a few seconds, give 1–2 ml of warm sterile saline per breath using a small syringe without a needle. Contact a veterinarian without delay for professional treatment.

What to do if a rat is not breathing? - in detail

If a pet rodent stops moving and shows no breath, immediate action can determine survival.

First, confirm the lack of respiration. Place the rat on a flat surface, observe the chest for rise and fall, and feel for airflow near the nostrils. If no movement or sound is detected, proceed without delay.

1. Clear the airway – Gently tilt the head back, lift the chin, and inspect the mouth for obstructions such as food, debris, or blood. Use a fine, blunt instrument (e.g., a cotton swab) to remove visible blockages. Do not insert objects deep into the throat.

2. Open the airway – With the head in the “sniff” position, ensure the trachea is unobstructed. If secretions are present, wipe them away with a sterile gauze pad.

3. Provide rescue breaths –

   • Close the mouth gently.
   • Place a small, clean syringe (1 ml) or a pediatric resuscitation mask over the nostrils.
   • Deliver a slow puff of air (approximately 0.5 ml) to inflate the lungs.
   • Observe chest expansion; repeat once if no expansion occurs.

4. Initiate CPR if no pulse –

   • Position the rat on its right side.
   • Locate the heart region just behind the sternum.
   • Using two fingers, compress the chest at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute, depth about 2 mm (≈¼ of the chest width).
   • Perform 30 compressions, then give two rescue breaths as described above. Continue cycles for up to two minutes.

5. Monitor for signs of life – Look for spontaneous breathing, heartbeat, or movement. If any return, keep the animal warm with a heating pad set to low temperature and monitor closely.

6. Seek professional veterinary care immediately – Even if the rat appears to recover, internal injuries or hypoxia may require treatment. Transport the animal in a quiet, temperature‑controlled carrier, and inform the clinic of the emergency measures already performed.

7. Prevent future incidents – Regularly check cage ventilation, avoid exposure to toxic fumes, and keep hazardous objects out of reach.

Time is critical; each step should be executed within seconds to maximize the chance of revival.