What do i do about my rat's breathing problems?

Question

My rat is about to turn four years old in 6 months. He is a hooded male. I KNOW he is having breathing problems. I will not be able to take him to the vet anytime soon, what do i do about it until then?

Here is some more info about my rat:

He is still active

I can HEAR his breathing

He sounds like a pigeon somtimes

He is still eating, a lot like always

He is in a slightly cold invironment

His brother died from the exact same thing

Please answer!!! I LOOOOOVE my rat!

Answer 1

wow!

since rats are really only supposed to live about 3 years, he is just getting old. But maybe you could buy the hypoallergenic bedding, it helped my rats a lot.

Answer 2

Sounds like myco or similar respitory infection.  

There are plenty of things you can do to treat it.  Some work, some don't.  

FIRST - get your rat out of the 'slightly cold' environment.  Make sure the cage has warm blankies and is protected from draft and cold.  

2nd go to a vet - find out what medication you need.  Meds are different - here in australia i've had success treating myco with a combination of 2 antibiotics called Baytril & Vibravet.  But you're vet should give you what you need and dosage instructions.  IF not see the pet rat guide - its very helpful (link below)

3rd - if the symptoms get worse and your rat struggles to breath you can give temporary relief by using a ventolin or a nebuliser with a prescribed medication

4th - small amounts of dark chococlate can even help!  when my rats are sick they get a small piece of dark compound cooking chocolate and its supposed to help as a relaxant to help them breathe

I've had a rat with steady myco for 2 years and he passed away peacefully in his sleep at 2 1/2 yrs old, he did not die in distress and he was eating and keeping his weight right up to the end.  He was very lucky.  Respitory infections are unpredictable and they should be treated immediately

Answer 3

Rather then wait for a vet; call the vet and ask what you can do until then.

Answer 4

not much you can do, as the rat needs antibiotics. it's not likely, but your vet might be willing to prescribe them over the phone so you don't have to pay for an appointment. it's worth a try..