Can Pet Rats Make You Sick?
WouterIf you have a rat, it is important to understand how to keep him healthy. The first step is to keep his cage clean. This will reduce the amount of ammonia. Next, you need to know how to identify signs of infection and treat them. There is no specific cure for chronic respiratory disease in rats, but early detection and antibiotic treatment will improve symptoms. Infections in rats can be caused by several different bacteria and viruses. Some of these can cause similar symptoms, such as coughing, loss of appetite, and discharge from the nose and eyes.
One of the biggest concerns about pet rats is that they can transmit diseases. The saliva and feces of these rodents contain germs that can infect humans. If you come into contact with them, it is important to wear rubber gloves. It’s also helpful to use paper towels to collect their waste.
If you think you’ve noticed evidence of a rat infestation, be sure to clean up the area. Rat droppings and urine are easily visible but dried urine can be harder to detect. Rodents will also leave behind nesting materials like paper, tissues, insulation, and furniture stuffing. After cleaning up any evidence of a rat infestation, be sure to disinfect the area thoroughly. Never sweep or vacuum up rat droppings or urine.
Another problem with rats is a bacteria known as hantavirus. This can cause diarrhea and vomiting, and can be transmitted from rodents to humans. In some cases, it may even lead to death. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a vet as soon as possible. You can also get a rat bite that can cause a skin rash and headaches.
