Do Rats Need Help?

If you have a rat in your home, the first thing to check for is the presence of disease. If a rat is showing symptoms of diarrhea or a respiratory infection, it might be time to seek veterinary attention. Rats need plenty of space and should be given lots of play time. A rat that is constantly huddled in a corner is probably suffering from an illness or is just plain uncomfortable. To spot a sick rat, you should examine its eyes and nose for signs of infection or disease. Also, look for signs of a healthy coat and skin. A healthy rat is usually active and curious.

Generally, rats self-groom, but they do need a little help at times. They may require nail trimming, but you can learn how to do this at your vet’s office. They do not require water for a bath, but a damp cloth can help them get rid of dirt. A vet can also help you determine what a healthy diet for a rat is. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin A will help a rat stay healthy and prevent disease.

Rats are nocturnal and are most active at night, especially at dusk and dawn. They are very social animals and may not want to disturb you at night.