Common Pet Rat Health Problems

Common Pet Rat Health Problems

Caramel/Fawn Ruby Eyed Top Ear and Black Veriberk Top Ear With Star!

Caramel/Fawn Ruby Eyed Top Ear and Black Veriberk Top Ear With Star!

Unfortunately, there are several health problems that pet rats face quite commonly. These health issues usually tend to occur in older age. Young bucks and does tend to be fairly resilient and healthy, with a happy go lucky temperament, very playful attitude, clear bright eyes, normal wheeze-free breathing, healthy body weight, well groomed coat, and a porphyrin free nose. As they age, health problems may become apparent. This is especially true of poorly bred or pet store bought rats. While these rats may still be amazing little pets, they are most definitely at risk for more health problems. Here’s a nice list of the most common health problems seen in our fancy rats.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are common in rats, especially in older animals. The classic urinary infection is characterized by an increase in urine production, a positive culture for bacterial or fungal infection, potential parasitic infection, and foul smelling urine. An easy to spot symptom for the concerned owner is wet fur around the genital area, as if the rat sat in a puddle of water. A urinary infection is definitely not something to play around with as it can become a complex issue.

Hematuria: Bloody Urine


Hematuria is a symptom that occurs with many different illnesses and health problems. Generally, it hints at a serious issue within the urinary system but can be caused by other illness that is afflicting completely different areas of the body as well. If the rat has eaten an unusually amount of red dye rich foods (red berries would be a good natural example), it is possible that the urine might be tinged with red. While this is relatively uncommon, it has caused quite a few scares in the past.

Internal Parasites: Worms, Protozoan, and More

  • Understanding and Treating Bladder Thread Worms in Rats

Internal parasites are seen in virtually every animal (even humans) on earth. It is not unlikely that a pet would have internal parasites, especially if he or she has not been treated before. Rats can gain quite a few different parasites, from the bladder thread worm to tapeworms. There are a few different methods for fighting off intestinal parasites, but ALL NATURAL methods are my favorite. And, they work!

External Parasites: Lice, Mice, Fleas, and More