What are the symptoms of respiratory infection in Rats?

Question

I've recently bought 3 female rats that are about 6 weeks old. They all look healthy and they don't make any sounds while breathing. No discharge.

A few days ago they started to sneeze once in a while, not a lot.

None of them are sneezing continuously, just once in a while, and they don't have any discharge. they are all very active.

But I am slightly worried about the sneezing even though its not a lot.

So I want to know what are the sypmtoms of respiratory infections in rats. Or could it be a cold, because I live in a cold environment.

If it is respiratory infection, is it contagious to humans?

Thank you.

Answer 1

It could be the new environment or an allergy to their bedding. Make sure that you're not using wood bedding, because they increase the risk of respiratory issues. RATS DO NOT GET COLDS. I learned that the hard way. If after changing the bedding they continue to sneeze or if it becomes more frequent you should take them to the vet immediately. Respiratory infections can take a turn for the worst quickly. I once had a rat that in the course of five days went from seemingly healthy to gone. It was a hard lesson to learn. A vet may be your best bet,to give you an idea they will probably prescribe an antibiotic like Baytril to be given orally with a syringe for about two weeks and run you about $30 for the exam and about that again for the medication.

Answer 2

It is normal for rats to sneeze every so often when they are in a new environment. Since you have not had them long, I am assuming this is the case. However, if you do end of suspecting that their sneezes are caused by something like an RI, here's what to look for. Red eye and nasal discharge, there doesn't have to be both eye and nasal, either or, but there is usually a lot of it, not just a tiny bit. Rats produce porphyrin (red stuff) naturally, and sometimes after waking up, you will notice a little bit, but that is normal. Also listen to how often they sneeze, consecutive sneezing that lasts for minutes is typically a warning sign. Also watch for hunched up posture, and ruffled up fur. If you can get close enough to your rat, you can pick him up and put your ear against his side to try and hear any fluid-like noises coming from his chest. Sick rats will not eat or drink as much, so also pay attnetion to that. From the way it sounds, I am almost certain that your rats are healthy as of right now. Keep a close eye to monitor if new symptoms occur or not. Here's another thing you can do regardless if they are ill or not. Go to Petco, petsmart, etc, and buy a multivitamin specifically for rodents. It is realtively cheap, and will boost their immune systems. Hope I could help you, goodluck!

Answer 3

It they sneeze occasionally, then that is fine.

No, rat respiratory issues aren't contagious to people.