Rats and respiratory illness

Question
Why are some rats prone to respiratory infections and how do they get them?  I asked another expert the same thing but want a second opinion. Thank you very much.

Answer
Hi there! Looks like your in my neck of the woods!!

To answer your question, rats are born right into coming in contact with the mycoplasma organism and are natural carriers of this bacteria. The key is to keep their immune system in check, avoid dust, drafts, bad foods that contain fungus such as the dried hard kernel corn found in that ever so nasty pet store mixes they sell that are very high in protein and very bad for rats. Also, the most important thing is to be sure your rat is treated as soon as you notice he or she has some sniffles and sneezing by having the rat on baytril in the PROPER DOSE for a full 30 days. Should the rat become infected again, the rat should be treated again the same way and after that, a daily dose of an antibiotic that is able to fight mycoplasma which is an organism that lacks a cell wall.  If the rat is NOT properly treated, they are open to a life long case of COPD, from asthma to lung scarring which causes wheezing and gasping and even panic attacks.  This shortens their life span considerably and is really not humane to have a rat life with panic attacks due to the inability to get enough oxygen. Please see my site, sandyscrittercity.com and refer to the topic about myco for more info. I advise buying rats from a reputable rat breeder rather than a pet store, always follow proper quarantine when bringing in new rats and never expose your rat to cigarette smoke, candle smoke, aerosols, perfumes, powders, air sprays, cleaning chemicals, dust, pine or cedar and keep their litter very clean and free of any urine build up.  Proper diet helps their immune system. Also see my site about proper food too. THis is also very important when it comes to keeping your rat healthy. Thats just a no brainer!  :)