Trencher again

Question
Firstly, thank you so much for such a prompt reply. Im very glad of your help and advice.
I know you must get a lot of questions so mine was about my rats hind legs splaying out. I have now been giving her metacam for three days. She seems to still be very down. She is just staying in her bed for most of the time. She is drinking and eating fine still though, but seems hesitant to walk around much. I have noticed she seems increasingly confused and keeps walking around in circles alot. Im very worried about her, she isn't her usual self at all and just seems so old and helpless and as if she has lost her way. She is even less responsive when i talk to her now and grinds her teeth a lot.
Also, about the cage adaptation, i have put soft blankets on all wire now but have not yet removed the ramps. I have another rat that shares the cage aswell, who seems to be perfectly healthy. Do i seperate them or keep her on one level too?? it's so hard to know what to do but im very upset about Trencher as she seems no better. Could she have neurological problems more than pain because of her legs as she seems so confused and really down even though she has been on the painkillers??

Thanks again. Sarah.


Answer
Hi Sarah

If you can, keep them together if you think the other rat wont mind. I think she probably will be happier WITH her cagemate and wont mind the one story cage.

Second, I am wondering if she doesnt have an inner ear infection.  This can make them unwell, walk in circles. tilt to the side etc...However, a pituitary tumor can cause neurological signs.

Few things to watch for: Is she using her front paws to hold food? Does she grasp with her front paws?  Is she chewing ok?

Any change in the shape of her eyes?  Are they the same size?