Can anyone tell me whats wrong with my rat?

Question

My rat walks around with his head on one side so that his right ear faces the ground. I have a feeling it is maybe an inner ear infection or something, not a problem with his neck, because he can hold it normally, he just doesn't. Is there anything i can do ASIDE from going to the vet? I cant afford a vet right now.

is it serious, or not? He is normal in every other way, except sometimes when he tries to clean himself he overbalances and ends up on his back.

Answer 1

It is likely an ear infection, although pituitary tumours and strokes can have similar symptoms.  Given that you see no other signs of illness it is very, very likely to be an ear infection.

There is absolutely nothing you can do except take him to the vet.  He needs antibiotics.  Try to borrow money from someone or sell something.  This is something that needs to be treated right away.  The longer you wait the more likely it is that his head tilt will be permanent.

Waiting is  not going to make this better, and it won't go away on it's own.  Please find money for a vet visit.

Answer 2

Is your rat a dumbo rat? I have had a few dumbo rats and they are just wierd...they acted SO different from my regular rats, but they were also a lot of fun...if its not a dumbo rat and its acting this way I think you are right...and you should bring it to the vet. Maybe if you talk to the vet, they might let you set up a payment plan or something...Ive had to do it!

Answer 3

I think you are right. take him to the vet it is a serious condition . A good source of information about rats is the rat lady or the rat fan club just type in the rat lady and she will be there good luck