How Quickly Do Rats Heal After Surgery?
WouterWhen your rat is hurt, you want him to be comfortable and to minimize pain. Before any surgery, make sure to give him some food and water. You should provide a towel to keep the rat from getting too hot. Afterward, you should offer him food as soon as he wakes up. If the surgery is major, your rat may need to be on a full course of antibiotics. This is especially true if he is very old or has health problems. It is best to start antibiotics before the surgery, especially if your rat has respiratory symptoms. It is also best to continue antibiotics until the incision is healed.
One of the common surgeries that affect rats is neutering them. This makes it easier for the surgeon and the animal. Male rats may continue to be fertile for 3 weeks after being neutered. This is a quick procedure, and most rats go home the same day. If the surgery is unsuccessful, the rat may become aggressive and obsessive.
After surgery, the wound is usually swollen and red. The patient may also be given pain medication, which helps reduce pain and prevent infection. A rat suffering from an infection should be isolated from other rats for five to seven days. It should be kept in a clean cage, with minimal activity and medication. It should be fed regularly, and he should be eating well within 12 to 24 hours. It is important to monitor the rat regularly, and report any changes to the veterinarian. If your rat begins to chew the stitches or chews on the wound, seek veterinary care immediately.
