Should I put my sick rat down?

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I'm Emma and I have two rats, Star and Ruby. You may remember me, I'm the one about the mites or lice.
Recently my mom said we might have to put Star down because she can't eat, I love her and I don't want her to suffer, but it would be so hard to say good bye!
Star can't chew, I'm not sure why. What I think happened is she had some strokes and it affected her mouth. And it has not healed.
She is blind in one eye with regular porphin (Did I spell that right?) in that eye.
Thanks and sorry for contacting you on Christmas break.
Emma

ANSWER: Dear Emma,

When you agree to be a rat companion, you are signing a contract that you will always put the rat's needs above your own. The decision to put any animal down must be guided 100% by the happiness of the animal and 0% by what you want for yourself.

Every day you have to ask yourself, is Star happy today? Is she enjoying life? If not, it is time to say goodbye. Make sure the vet gasses her before injecting.

Sorry about the lecture.


In the meantime, you will have to give her soft food-- and get her to an exotics (or pocket pets) vet. She may have a tooth problem that is treatable. This is common.

Soak her lab blocks/pellets in rice milk, soy milk, Ensure, or soy infant formula. Make sure it is easy for her to get it. Can she still get to her water bottle? You might end up making a soup of her food and feeding her with an eyedropper.

Just remember: Only if she is happy.

I am sure you will make the right decision when it is time.

I am so sorry poor Star is so unwell. I wish her the best.

squeaks,

Natasha



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hey no problem about the lecture! I do know that, but when you put it that way it's so much more simple. Would  a picture help? If so tell me and I can send a picture of her mouth.

Answer
Hi again,

Nope; I can't do anything with a photo, unless the teeth are obviously overgrown or crooked. You can send one to the experts Debbie or Irene. They each have a ton of experience, including medical. Still, a vet appt ASAP is important.

Best of luck to her. Make absolutely sure she is getting enough to drink. It is easy-and dangerous- for a rat to become dehydrated.

Squeaks,

Natasha