Do Rats Have Diseases?
WouterRats are known to have a variety of diseases, and one of these is uroliths. These growths affect the kidneys and bladder of older rats, and may be undetected in the early stages. Symptoms of the disease include blood in the urine and inflammation in the affected area. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the stones. In rare cases, these growths can lead to kidney failure, which can lead to death. Fortunately, most cases of uroliths are curable with the correct medical care.
Another disease rat owners may be concerned about is toxoplasmosis. This disease is caused by a protozoan known as Toxoplasma gondii. The disease is usually spread by inhalation of contaminated particles and contact with infected objects. Symptoms vary depending on the type of infection, and the severity of the disease.
If you plan to purchase a new rat, it’s best to find out how healthy it is. Rats have been implicated in the spread of many diseases throughout history, including the bubonic plague, the black death, and many other diseases. Some of these illnesses are deadly to humans and can even be transmitted to pets. Because rats have the same anatomy and physiology as wild rats, pet rats are susceptible to the same diseases.
Rats have a voracious appetite and can eat up to a third of their body weight a day. They feed on a variety of objects, including plastic, paper, cardboard, and metal. Their diet also includes plants, vegetables, poultry, and eggs, as well as grains and livestock feed. This can lead to an infestation of pests in your home.
