My poor little rat! Is he sick?

Question

I recently adopted a male rat from a family that had kept him, bascially for breeding purposes. His cage was very very small for his size, so I bought him a larger more roomier cage. He seems very shy compared to the rats I used to own. I always wory about their health, so when I noticed he was sneezing slightly, it worried me. He has a slight discharge from the nose, very very slight, but I do beleive that is from stress of a new environment an a new cage, as that is what happened to my other ones but it cleared up. Whats worrying me now is after 2 days, his p**p is TURQUOISE colored and softer than it should be. And he seems to be pooping wuite a bit more than normal. I gave him a short warm bath and some new bedding and some fruit but he just doesn't seem very interested. Is he just shy? Should I get him some antibiotics?

Answer 1

the p**p coloration could be from the food he is eating. my rat was highly sick so to help her eat i gave her healthy foods like fruits, veggies, and all natural yogurt which changed the color of her p**p for awhile because her body was adjusting to the new diet. so that could be whats happening, if he is getting different food than what he used to.

but u should call a vet and see a vet if that is possible. just to make sure he is okay. but most likely this is from stress. it is highly stressful for an adult rat to move.

Answer 2

Just shy/nervous. Both of my boys will do some soft/off colored p**p if they feel scared.

I would say, that if it persists for more than 5 days, then he should get proper medical attention.

Answer 3

Cut back on the fruits a little. The discoloration and softness of the stool may be from to much watery food. I believe he is stressing a little bit about his large cage. Does he have a snug shelter available where he usually hangs out, so he can feel safe? I'm pretty sure he'll settle in, but if problems persist, and you're still worried, contact a vet.

Answer 4

just take him to the vet and have them check him if you can`t do that I don`t know what to tell you

Answer 5

go easy on the fruit, just give him pellets for a couple days, peanut butter a little wouldn't  hurt, It is stress from being moved, and the water, He will settle down in a couple days

Answer 6

take it to the vet to have a check up.  

Answer 7

He might just be sneezy because he's in a new environment. I'd just keep a look out for any other worrisome signs like wheezing or excessive red discharge from the eyes and nose.

I have no idea on the p**p, my only thought would be his diet. It's something to keep an eye on.

I wouldn't worry too much at this point, I'd just keep a close eye on him for any other symptoms. Make sure you have a good rat vet just in case:

http://www.petinfopackets.com/rats/rathe...

Remember that rats are highly social animals and that he is going to need a same s*x buddy.

I'd recommend getting another rat from a reputable breeder or rescue as pet store rats are often ill or, in the case of females, pregnant. Plus, you don't want to support pet stores and their mills or backyard breeders:

http://www.petinfopackets.com/rats/ratin...

http://www.petinfopackets.com/rats/ratin...

Always make sure to quarantine a new rat:

http://www.petinfopackets.com/rats/rathe...

Before doing introductions slowly and on neutral ground:

http://ratguide.com/care/behavior/introd...

http://www.ratfanclub.org/newrat.html

http://www.ratpalace.com/rat-articles/ra...