Question by Casey: Pet Rat health problems?
I’m an expierienced rodent keeper; i’ve had everything from hamsters to guinea pigs to chinchillas! I’ve never had any problems with them but I’ve been considering getting some pet rats because people say they are more rewarding.

But I’ve also heard that pet rats tend to have a load of medical problems – is this true? & are they really worth the burden?

Best answer:

Answer by Courtney
I can certainly attest to the potential medical problems rats have. The past two days I’ve lost two of my boys to such problems. Templeton had a URI (common in rats) aggravated by chronic myco, basically bad respiratory issues. He went to the vet 4 times, and was on antibiotics for months. Usually this helps, but Temp was in a neglectful home before me and was left outside (also had to be treated for mites from this) so I think that likely made his condition worse.

Fezzik, my other fellow, I got at 5 weeks old. He was a sweetheart, and very calm. A little bit more timid than his brothers (I got him along with two of his brothers) but he was more affectionate. He had a very large abscess on his side, which would not burst. So I had to take him to the vet to have it removed. While in surgery the vet found several tumors inside him and we had to put him to sleep.

In all I’ve spend over 0 (6 visits, total, in ten months) on my rats and their medical care. Now, I think my case is definitely special considering the time between deaths, but you definitely need to be prepared to have to take them if a problem appears. They’re very sensitive and very smart, and shouldn’t be left to suffer. I think that’s the main reason you hear so much about rats needing to go to the vet. Their owners care so deeply about this species that they want to shout, make it loud and clear, that they are a commitment, just like a cat or dog.

Are they worth the burden? Yes. I’d do it all again. I absolutely love them. Their deaths are devastating, but they make wonderful pets while they’re here. I’ve still got three of my boys and I would never give them up.They’re the most rewarding rodents I’ve ever owned, no contest at all, and I’ve also owned hamsters, gerbils, mice, and guinea pigs. No chinchillas, but I’ve worked with them.

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