Can Pet Rats Cause Disease?
WouterSeveral viruses can cause diseases in pet rats. Some of these viruses affect the respiratory system, lungs, and Harderian glands near the eyes. Infection can also affect the skin. The symptoms can include fever, chills, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. The rat infection is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact or airborne virus particles. It can also be spread by contaminated cage objects and bedding. Symptoms typically last between two and three weeks.
Mycoplasma infection of the lungs is another common disease in pet rats. This infection is usually caused by certain strains of rats, but can also occur in wild rats. It can be transmitted to humans through a rat bite, soil, or water. Treatment is not necessary unless the disease is life threatening, but it can be fatal if untreated.
Another disease caused by pet rats is rat-bite fever. This disease is often caused by infected rats, and is often fatal in young children. This disease can be prevented by taking proper care of your pet. It is important to clean and sterilise your rat thoroughly, and to check for any signs of disease.
You should wash your hands thoroughly after handling your pet rat, and you should use an alcohol-based hand cleaner. You should also make sure to keep the rat’s habitat away from areas where food is prepared. If your pet becomes ill or has a scratch, inform your healthcare provider immediately.
