Does she have any history of respiratory problems? Is the wheezing just a sound that you're noticing, or is her breathing visibly labored with it?
Rats will often hide or downplay their illnesses until it's really bad, so with something like that (especially if you're questioning) it's best to get it checked out. I'd go for the vet visit- in the meantime, upping the humidity in her room (assuming you're in the northern hemisphere, the dry winter air can irritate rattie noses) and removing any environmental irritants (dust, etc.) can be helpful.
She's often a little bit sniffly but never as bad as she was yesterday. She actually seems a bit better today so I'll keep an eye on her and if it starts back up again we'll definitely take a trip to the vet :) thanks!
Sounds like a plan, but I echo the fact that rats tend to hide their discomfort until it's bad, so it's definitely important to be aware of the signs!
I've also heard you can give ratties some semi-sweet morsels to help temporarily relieve respiratory distress... I've never tried it for respiratory issues specifically (though it is an occasional treat for no reason;) ) I also love that her name is James! I have a girl named Charlie, so I feel kind of like we have a girl-rats-with-boy-names club, only cool kids allowed.
Check to see if the congestion is confined to her head, or if her lungs are wheezy/crackly (I just hold my boys up to my ear). IF its just in her head, check environmental issues - their noses are so sensitive that dust or strong or chemical smells can really set off their sinuses. If it's in her lungs, that's a sure vet visit in my house.
Keep some dark chocolate chips handy for treats - they're great for helping respiratory issues.
Comments 6
Rats will often hide or downplay their illnesses until it's really bad, so with something like that (especially if you're questioning) it's best to get it checked out. I'd go for the vet visit- in the meantime, upping the humidity in her room (assuming you're in the northern hemisphere, the dry winter air can irritate rattie noses) and removing any environmental irritants (dust, etc.) can be helpful.
She's a cutie, I hope she feels better soon!
Reply
Reply
I've also heard you can give ratties some semi-sweet morsels to help temporarily relieve respiratory distress... I've never tried it for respiratory issues specifically (though it is an occasional treat for no reason;) )
I also love that her name is James! I have a girl named Charlie, so I feel kind of like we have a girl-rats-with-boy-names club, only cool kids allowed.
Reply
Reply
Keep some dark chocolate chips handy for treats - they're great for helping respiratory issues.
Reply
Reply
Leave a comment