Is It Possible For Rats to Get Fleas?
WouterAlthough rats are not the primary hosts of fleas, it is possible for rats to get them. Symptoms of flea infestation include biting, scratching, and grooming. These fleas are very small, and most commonly live on the back and neck. They are easy to spot with a magnifying glass. These parasites shed their droppings, which look like black dirt. Oftentimes, you may not even notice them, but it is important to treat your rat with the proper medication.
Unlike fleas, mites and fleas don’t usually damage skin. But if you see a scab or a red ring on your rat, he might have mites or fleas. These parasites can be dangerous for your rat, and they can even lead to anemia or debilitation. Luckily, lice and mites are largely species-specific. Since they lay nits on hair, they can’t reproduce on hairless rats. Fortunately, there are over-the-counter creams available to treat the problem. The most common one is itraconazole, but you can also use an alternative known as terbinafine hydrochloride.
After your rat has visited the veterinarian, clean the cage thoroughly. Wash everything with a mild dish detergent and rinse it off thoroughly. If you find that your rat has fleas, get rid of any bedding that may be infected and freeze any remaining materials for 24 hours. Then, do not leave the rat outside overnight.
