Worried about rat?

Question

I've asked this question before, but didn't get any replies, so here it is again.

I have two rats, recently, one of our rats just sits in his cage and doesn't come out to play which is very unlike him. His fur isn't fluffed up, he's still eating, drinking and he's still responsive-it's just that he's become really apathetic and subdued. He is still eating and drinking as normal.

Both of my rats have been on Baytril because they have a suspected early stage respiritory illness. Could Baytril be making him sick? They have however been taking it for about two weeks without issue. Or could he just because he's getting older and slowing down a bit? (He's only four months) Any answers from experienced rat owners would be massively appreciated. (Taking him to the vet isn't much of an option because even the best rat vet in our area is still c**p)

Answer 1

I recommend you join this forum - www.ratztails.co.uk

It's probably better than Yahoo!, because I know they have 2 amazing breeders & a qualified vet.

(:

Answer 2

Baytril is known to treat a variety of infections. Good stuff for pets. Some of the side effects can be what you described. In some cases it causes liver damage as well so be careful not to give more then then vet prescribed or as directed. Antibiotics in rats, mice and hamsters can cause them to feel "blah" for a lack of better words. Just continue the medication like you are doing and change their bedding frequently to avoid futher infection.

Answer 3

Have you noticed looser droppings at all? Antibiotics kill off the natural gut flora (beneficial bacteria). You could try getting Bene-bac (beneficial bacteria supplement) from a pet store and giving him that.

Answer 4

I had two rats who also sadly developed respiratory diseases and were on Baytril.  I found that as the disease progressed they became more listless, and not so inquisitive as they once were.  Yes they were still eating and looked fine, but eventually the disease caught up with them and it all happened very quickly.  With both of them I had to have them put to sleep as they could not breath and were in alot of distress.  I would not get another rat now as have since found this is a really common problem which is really distressing for all concerned.

Good Luck