I have seven rats, and a few months ago one of the females died. There appeared to be nothing wrong with her, hours before she was fine. They were all of good health and weight at the time. Now the other females including the mother are all horrifyingly thin, and some have big masses under their skin. I made a vet appointment for tomorrow, but what do you think could be going on? Because they're fed daily, we don't give them anything that's bad for them.

I don't have experience with rats, but suggestions I've read for illness involving weight loss include cleaning the cage thoroughly with dilute bleach, feeding high-calorie food (sweetened instant oatmeal, baby food, grits, and cooked eggs), and sweetening water with a teaspoon of sugar to encourage them to keep hydrated.


The other suggestion is one you've already taken - take the animal to a vet. Did the vet have any answers for you?

I've been watching this post, and trying to find an answer - but haven't been able to.
What did the vet say? How are your rats doing now? I hope they are doing better.

-AnimalAngel

Well, I took them into the vet and she told me that 90% of rat tumors are benign, and that with surgery the two out of my seven rats that have them will be alright. Three of them have pneumonia, and are on medicines and in seperate cages for a couple of weeks. The vet seemed to think that they will make a complete recovery. One of the girls isn't eating and drinking well, and I'm still pretty worried about her.

I am sorry that they are sick, but am glad that the vet has high hopes for them. I'm glad they were able to get medicine, too. I hope they are all better really soon. I hope that the one you're worried about starts to eat and drink soon...
Please let us know their progess.


-AnimalAngel