My rat has red nose discharge, trouble breathing, and won't eat. Help!

She is suffering from a respiratory infection caused by a bacteria called mycoplasma, it's very common in rats. you need to take her to the vet urgently in order to get antibiotic treatment, i usually use Zithromax at this age.

Rodney is probably suffering from a respiratory infection, many rats are infected with a bacteria called mycoplasma that is causing this condition. you will need to take him to the vet in order to get it treated, a course of special antibiotic will be prescribed for 3 weeks.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is a good sign that Oliver’s red discharge has stopped. This is a substance known as porphyrin, which rats make normally in a small gland behind their eye. It is normally groomed off, but you may notice it if your rat is grooming less than usual because he doesn’t feel well. The fact that the discharge is now gone, is likely because Oliver has started grooming. Unfortunately, rats can have many bacterial infections that can cause them to sneeze and may take some time to treat. I recommend continuing the antibiotics for as long as directed by your vet, even if the symptoms decrease.

Hello, and thank you for your question. The reddish discharge from the eyes is called porphyrin, which usually occurs in rats due to stress, often due to medical illness. Has she been feeling unwell lately? Common causes of illness in rats include upper respiratory infections (colds), systemic infections, diarrhea, skin problems, or skin tumours. If her energy or appetite are decreased, I would encourage you to take her to the vet to pinpoint the underlying cause. At minimum, they can provide supportive medications for pain or antibiotics if needed. In the meantime, make sure you are keeping Enni's living area clean, and cleaning out any soiled bedding daily. I hope this helps, and that Enni feels better soon.

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.

Thanks for reaching out about Gerat. The most likely cause is mycoplasma, which is a bacteria problem. Antibiotics can often improve clinical signs, but often is not curable, so this could be an on-again/off-again problem. A veterinary visit is required to prescribe to appropriate antibiotics. The website for the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians (AEMV.org) might help you find a vet. Stress is often associated so review diet and husbandry and correct problems. Good luck.

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.