Jacob(Russian Dumbo)

Question
Hi Sandra, vet has prescribed  Baytril + Onsior on intial visit then Baytril  oral; a week has passed and Jacob still very listless, can only taken a very little liquid+ Oxbow critical care (food)sachet that I feed via syringe-he does not move;slight red around top eyes;unsure what to do; go back to vet (quite expensive here in UK each visit!).Still have some Baytril to finish; should I wait a while and finish Baytril or what do you advise? Vet said respiratory tract infection in upper region as diagnosis. This is my daughter's pet which I am  looking after till she returns in a week; I hope Jacob will last  for another week and yes even longer.I love him to bits and feel so sad seeing him now compared to what he was! He is just about 1 year old. Await any kind advice.Thanks so much...Anthony

Answer

The rule of thumb is to allow an antibiotic to work for three days, and if there is no change in the rats condition, a new antibiotic should be introduced.

I suggest a more aggressive antibiotic and possibly an x ray to see what the lungs look like. They can be scarred rather than be infected.