My rat has red fluid coming out of its eye?

Question

My female dumbo rat has red fluid coming out of its one eye but not the other. She is healthy and her breathing sounds good. Only a bit comes out and when you wash it off its gone...

Does this mean she has a problem in her body?

Answer 1

Think of it like sleep in a humans eye. That's all it is. The red fluid is called poryphin. Although it can indicate a respiratory infection, its just a bodily excretion and only extreme amounts coming out of nose and eyes is what I'd worry about.

Answer 2

The red fluid is called poryphin cant spread tho.like rats do that usually like the crusts in our eyes when we wake up but theirs is a red fluid!

=]

Answer 3

"Brownish red discharge that comes from a rat's eyes and nose is called porphyrin and in small amounts it is normal.  Rats naturally have red mucus, so sometimes when they wake up from a nap you will notice it around their eyes just as humans' eyes can get 'crusties'.  A normal, healthy rat should not have very much porphyrin; usually it is a result of stress, bad bedding, or illness (generally respiratory illness)."  http://en.allexperts.com/q/Pet-Rats-3537...

The red stuff is no big deal; it is usually due to stress or a dirty cage if anything.  You only need to worry about it if a lot is coming out.  I'd first clean your cage well to see if that cuts down on the problem.  Also wash any hammocks, sleep spots that are made or contain fabric.  

Hope that helps!