virus in the rat?
Ok, so I have four rats who all live in a large cage together. Early this evening, my oldest rat has begun to show the intense lethargy, labored breathing, and hunched posture. She has a tumor is very old and therefore we thought it was just old age. However, a few hours later, my other middle-aged rats began to show the same symptoms. When I take the two off, they just want to lay down and sleep. They can hardly walk, have poor balance, and can barely open his eyes. I went online and read about a virus called Sendai virus, and I wondered if that might be. I separated my two healthy rats and put them in a different stairwell. I am really worried that he can catch too, and I do not think I can handle losing all four! What do you think happens to them, why do you think happening, and what do you think I should do?
There are several diseases that have the same symptoms you describe. This could be a mycoplasma infection or simply a lower respiratory tract infection or higher. It could also be Sendai or SDA. These viruses can go home on your clothes or in your hair if you have been somewhere else that has a large rat population, as a pet shop. These diseases are the reason why there are not many pet rat shows in the U.S., no more. No one wants to expose their babies. Both PetSmart and Petco rats were tested positive for these diseases during the last two years. The speed is what surprises me. Most often, these illnesses worse during the period of few days. You really should take your rats in the veterinarian as soon as you can see what the problem is. You need to find a vet who really knows a lot of exotic plants. The might ELIZA do a test on one of your children. If you discover that your sick rat suffering from a disease, you probably also healthy, but you may want to find to a temporary home, without other rats just in case you can prevent them from getting sick. treatments for these diseases vary, but generally includes a cycle aggressive antibiotics and supportive care, like fluids and liquid foods. Check them out: http://www.hiiret.fi/eng/mice/health6.html http://www.rmca.org/Articles/sda.htm
10. Causes of Hyperventilation. Part 4.