Why is the Rex rat losing its fur? - briefly
Fur loss in Rex rats commonly results from nutritional deficiencies, parasitic infestations, or underlying health problems such as skin infections or hormonal imbalances. Maintaining a balanced diet, implementing regular parasite control, and scheduling veterinary examinations can mitigate the condition.
Why is the Rex rat losing its fur? - in detail
The Rex rat is a breed distinguished by its short, plush fur, which makes any reduction in hair density immediately noticeable.
Several factors can trigger coat loss in this species:
- Genetic predisposition: recessive genes linked to the Rex coat may also affect hair follicle development, leading to thinning or patchy alopecia.
- Nutritional insufficiency: diets lacking adequate protein, essential fatty acids, zinc, or biotin impair keratin synthesis, resulting in fragile hair that sheds excessively.
- Parasitic infestation: mites (e.g., Myobia musculinus), lice, and fleas irritate the skin, provoke inflammation, and cause localized hair loss.
- Bacterial or fungal infection: Staphylococcus spp. and Dermatophytes invade compromised skin, producing scabs, crusts, and depigmented patches.
- Hormonal imbalance: thyroid hyperactivity or adrenal disorders disrupt the hair growth cycle, generating diffuse shedding.
- Environmental stress: excessive humidity, poor ventilation, or abrupt temperature changes increase skin moisture, fostering fungal overgrowth and hair loss.
- Over‑grooming: chronic scratching or biting, often secondary to itch caused by the above agents, removes hair mechanically.
Diagnostic approach includes physical examination, skin scrapings for ectoparasites, fungal culture, blood work to assess thyroid and adrenal function, and dietary analysis to identify deficiencies.
Effective management combines targeted treatment—antiparasitic medication, antimicrobial therapy, or hormone regulation—with nutritional supplementation of high‑quality protein, omega‑3 fatty acids, and trace minerals. Environmental modifications such as stable temperature, low humidity, and regular cage cleaning reduce secondary infections.
Preventive measures focus on balanced diet, routine health monitoring, and prompt isolation of affected individuals to limit contagion. Continuous observation of coat condition enables early intervention, preserving the characteristic plush appearance of the breed.