What to treat a rat with? - briefly
Administer a broad‑spectrum antibiotic (e.g., enrofloxacin or trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole), provide analgesia (such as meloxicam or buprenorphine), and ensure supportive care including fluids, warmth, and wound management. Consult a veterinarian for precise dosing and to address any underlying disease.
What to treat a rat with? - in detail
Treating a laboratory or pet rat requires a clear diagnosis, appropriate medication, and supportive care. Identify the condition through clinical signs, physical examination, and, when needed, laboratory testing. Common problems and their standard interventions are outlined below.
Bacterial infections such as respiratory disease, abscesses, or urinary tract infections respond to antibiotics selected for the likely pathogen and sensitivity pattern. First‑line agents include enrofloxacin (10 mg/kg subcutaneously once daily) and trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole (30 mg/kg orally twice daily). For gram‑positive infections, amoxicillin–clavulanic acid (20 mg/kg orally twice daily) is frequently used. Duration typically spans 7–10 days, extending to 14 days for deep‑seated infections.
Parasitic infestations—mites, lice, pinworms, or coccidia—require antiparasitic drugs. Effective options are:
- Ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg subcutaneously, single dose) for external arthropods.
- Fenbendazole (50 mg/kg orally, once daily for 5 days) for gastrointestinal nematodes and coccidia.
- Selamectin (0.2 mg/kg topically, weekly) for mixed ectoparasite control.
Fungal disease, most often caused by Aspergillus spp., is managed with itraconazole (10 mg/kg orally once daily) or terbinafine (30 mg/kg orally once daily). Monitor liver enzymes throughout therapy.
Pain and inflammation are addressed with non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg orally once daily) or carprofen (5 mg/kg orally once daily). Analgesic dosing must consider the rat’s small size and renal function.
Supportive measures improve outcomes:
- Fluid therapy: Lactated Ringer’s solution (30 ml/kg subcutaneously) for dehydration.
- Nutritional supplementation: High‑calorie diet, vitamin C (10 mg/kg orally) for stress‑related scurvy.
- Environmental adjustments: Temperature 20–24 °C, low humidity, minimal drafts, and clean bedding.
All drug administration should follow veterinary prescription, with dosage calculations based on precise body weight. Observe for adverse reactions, adjust treatment promptly, and document progress. In complex or refractory cases, referral to a veterinary specialist experienced in rodent medicine is advisable.