Skin Irritations and Diseases
Skin diseases and irritations are fairly common in rats and there can be several contributing factors to their discomfort. These are sarcoptic mites, fleas, eczema, high levels of dietary protein and stress.
The first symptoms of these will normally present themselves as scabs along the shoulders and neck, but can also be seen along the head, face and chin. This is as a result of the rat scratching itchy patches.
The first course of action that I would suggest, besides reducing the stress in the animal's environment, would be to treat for mites. Mites cannot be seen with the naked eye, but an advanced infestation will normally present itself with the above mentioned scabbing, hair loss, and wart-like growths around the ears and tail. Treat by applying one drop of Ivermectin or diluted Revolution for puppies or kittens to the back of the neck, once a week for at least 4 weeks. Make sure to treat all the rats in the cage, because if one is infected all of them are, even if they aren't showing symptoms yet.
If this is ineffective try to decrease the level of protein that you are feeding your rats. High levels of protein cause several allergic reactions in rats, one of them being a decrease in their immune systems. Mites and fleas take advantage of this and infestation is more likely.
If none of this works, ask your vet to test for eczyma. An anti-bacterial cream will normally do the trick for this.
Remember that this article is only meant to be a guide, not a replacement for proper veterinary care. Please consult your vet for any medically distressing situations.
The first symptoms of these will normally present themselves as scabs along the shoulders and neck, but can also be seen along the head, face and chin. This is as a result of the rat scratching itchy patches.
The first course of action that I would suggest, besides reducing the stress in the animal's environment, would be to treat for mites. Mites cannot be seen with the naked eye, but an advanced infestation will normally present itself with the above mentioned scabbing, hair loss, and wart-like growths around the ears and tail. Treat by applying one drop of Ivermectin or diluted Revolution for puppies or kittens to the back of the neck, once a week for at least 4 weeks. Make sure to treat all the rats in the cage, because if one is infected all of them are, even if they aren't showing symptoms yet.
If this is ineffective try to decrease the level of protein that you are feeding your rats. High levels of protein cause several allergic reactions in rats, one of them being a decrease in their immune systems. Mites and fleas take advantage of this and infestation is more likely.
If none of this works, ask your vet to test for eczyma. An anti-bacterial cream will normally do the trick for this.
Remember that this article is only meant to be a guide, not a replacement for proper veterinary care. Please consult your vet for any medically distressing situations.