Male Rat -- Inflamed Penile Sheath

Question
My sweetie, Little Chef, about 22 months, appears to have an inflamed penile sheath.  During the last 2 days, he has started grooming it frequently -- 5 minutes at a time.  Otherwise, health seems good --eating well, drinking water, urinating.

I did an inspection, and the sheath area appears larger and redder than normal, no apparent bleeding or discharge.  There have been no changes in cage litter (CareFresh) or diet.

What do you think could be going on?  Also, if a vet visit is warranted, please provide a referral in the Cincinnati area.

Answer
Yes, he needs a vet and as soon as tonight if not tomorrow. Below is the names of two clinics that see rats, one is an ER for $63 that sees rats. I called to ask just a bit ago.

Anyhow, it sounds as if he has Paraphimosis.  This is a painful condition seen in males that occur when the foreskin becomes trapped behind the glans penis and it cannot retract back to the sheath. This leaves the glans exposed and it becomes swollen and very irritated. This is why he keeps licking it so often. It may turn very red as you have seen and he may even have a hard time going to the bathroom.

Because of the possibility of lack of blood flow to the glans penis, this can cause infection from urinary retention.  Its very important to get him to a vet as soon as you can. Being that it is Sunday, the only option is an emergency clinic that is open 24 hours and sees rats and other exotics.

The "do it yourself" method may not work due to the swelling not to mention the fact he probably wont let you touch him down there, but if you could, one of the ways to get it back to its normal position is to actually pull the penis out (gently!!)just a bit more, quickly lubricate it and gently push it back, but it may slide back on its own.  Again, I doubt he will let you do this without sedation like the vet will probably do.


here is what I have as far as Vets go in your area:


The Animal Hospital on Mt. Lookout Sq.
3175 Linwood Ave
Cincinnati OH 45208
Phone:    513-871-8866
Website:www.ahomls.com


24 hour service:
Grady Veterinary Hospital: 9211 Winton Road., Finneytown. Open 24 hours, 365 days a year.

(513) 931-8675.

They see rats, the office visit is $63 which is really really super inexpensive for an ER clinic.
I would go here tonight.  Please let me know how it goes no matter if you go now or tomorrow.  The sooner the better.  It is a painful condition with complications without prompt treatment, providing I am correct with my diagnosis.  If this is not what he has, he has some sort of nasty infection that needs prompt attention anyhow.  Either way, let me know soon as you can how he is doing and thank you for caring enough about him to write to me.


Please print this for reference to bring to the Vet just in case they have never seen this condition before.