Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Rat breathing heavily, mouth open after amoxicillin. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | 0.33 lbs

So my rat was showing symptoms of respiratory problems from 2 weeks. So i decided to give him amoxicillin today but when i did. It made him stressed and he started breathing through his mouth. He was already breathing very heavily and laboured. What should i do

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 2nd, 2018

I am so sorry that Marble is feeling so unwell. Unfortunately with the clinical signs of respiratory distress, open mouth breathing and laboured breathing I would have to advise you take Marble to the veterinarian straight away. These are all very serious and potentially life threatening symptoms. They could represent an infection in the lungs or even a cancer. The veterinarian will be able to stabilise Marble while running diagnostics to determine the cause.

Again, I am very sorry Marble is so unwell and I hope he feels relief as soon as possible. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and post any further questions you may have about Marble, we are here to help.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Should I worry if my rat is heavy breathing, sneezing, and noisy?

This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or eventually to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My mouse is inactive and breathing heavily. What's wrong, how to help?

Hi, sorry to hear about your mouse. It is possible he has a respiratory illness that is common in rats. This needs to be treated with an antibiotic. i recommend taking him to an exotic vet or a vet than can provide such a small dose of antibiotics. You can make sure he is warm because something they get cold and try o keep his nasal passages open. Good luck, I hope this helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My new rats have breathing issues. Can Fishmox or amoxicillin help?

Thanks for reaching out about your new family members. Amoxicillin will not treat the typical infectious organism that causes respiratory problems in rats (Mycoplasma). Either return to the vendor or seek a veterinary visit for recommended treatment. If is not the place, nor is it legal to prescribe medications or recommend medication treatments from this website. Good luck.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why is my pet rat breathing fast, clicking, and barely moving?

Hello, and thank you for your question. It sounds like Bueller may have an upper respiratory tract infection, which is very common in rats. I would recommend taking him to the vet within the next 24 hours, especially since he is so lethargic. They can prescribe appropriate antibiotic medication, and offer other supportive medications if necessary. In the meantime, you can try using a humidifier to help ease his congestion. I would also ensure you are not using pine or cedar based bedding as the fumes from this type of bedding can worsen respiratory issues. Carefresh is a reliable alternative. I hope this helps, and that Bueller is feeling better soon.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

Why is my pet rat struggling to breathe and acting so tired?

Thanks for reaching out about Rita. A common respiratory disease in rats is mycoplasmosis, a bacteria-like organism that causes chronic upper and lower respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, sneezing and congestion. Antibiotics can improve condition but might not cure. A veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why is my young rat gasping, sneezing, and struggling to breathe?

Hello. Poor Oreo sounds as if she has a pretty severe respiratory infection, very common in young rats. I would suggest having your veterinarian examine her & start an appropriate antibiotic. Waiting could result in permanent lung damage. I hope she is feeling better soon. Take care.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My rat has strange breathing sounds. Does he need a specialist?

Thanks for reaching out about Bob. The most common cause of respiratory problems in rats are mycoplasma. Response to oral antibiotics is fairly good, but often difficult to totally clear with potential relapses. But treatments often improve quality of life. You would have to contact the local veterinarian for experience. Good luck.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share