Can pet rats cause health problems?
There are disease concerns with both wild (rats, mice) and pet (rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs) rodents and rabbits. They can carry many diseases including hantavirus, leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCMV), Tularemia and Salmonella.
What are the common diseases and ailments for pet rats?
Disorders Affecting Multiple Body Systems of Rats
- Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus Infection. Infection with this virus occurs occasionally in rats.
- Parvovirus Infection. This viral infection is uncommon in rats kept as pets.
- Polyarteritis Nodosa.
- Salmonellosis.
What causes the most common health problems in rats?
Respiratory infections are one of the most common health problems of rats. They can be caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses.
What are the symptoms of DVM in rats?
by Maggie Wood, DVM Respiratory infections are one of the most common health problems of rats. They can be caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses. Symptoms that may be seen include increased respiratory noise, sneezing, nasal discharge, faster respiratory rate, labored breathing, and red tears.
Why does my pet rat have breathing problems?
Any problems with your rat’s breathing can be an indication of respiratory distress, which left untreated, can lead to permanent damage of the respiratory tract. The majority of pet rats carry an organism called mycoplasma, which dwells in their respiratory systems.
Is there a medical guide for pet rats?
The case histories and photos have been graciously submitted by pet rat owners and can be a very useful tool for identifying and understanding the medical concerns of our rats. Included are links to other useful medical resources including the Rat Medication Guide.
What to do if your pet rat has a breathing problem?
Treating Breathing Problems in Rats If your rat is having problems breathing and regardless of whether or not there is nasal or ocular discharge, seek help from your exotics vet and start treatment as soon as possible. If your rat is diagnosed with a more serious condition than a simple cold, the treatment will vary based on the problem.
What diseases do pet rats have?
Like wild rats, pet rats do carry diseases. Some of the common diseases carried by pet rats include lymphocytic choriomeningitis, hantavirus, leptospirosis, salmonella, and rat bite fever.
Do domestic rats carry diseases?
Salmonellosis. Salmonellosis, or salmonella , is another bacterial illness that both domestic and wild rats carry. Like leptospirosis , it is spread to humans through contact with urine and feces. In humans, salmonellosis causes gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever.
Is rat healthy?
Rats are cuddly, friendly and intelligent pets. They are reasonably easy to keep healthy, making then an ideal pet for young families. Rats have only gained popularity as pets in the past hundred years or so. These wonderful little creatures are reasonably easy to keep healthy, which makes them a good first pet for a young family.
