Is my rat in heat?

Question
   I have a female fancy rat that is about 5-6 months old. I have only had her for a week and have a health related question for you....is she in heat?
  Today I noticed that her vagina has a bluish-purple color to it (she is white so it is easy to see)and she has been cleaning it much more than before. She has also been sleeping more than I noticed before and does not want to be held as much (she still plays with me and is active, but does not want to be held still).
  I just want to be sure that she doesn't need a trip to the vet.

Answer
Hi Charlotte

Female rats begin the estrus (heat) cycle at 5 to 6 weeks of age and their cycle is every 4 to 5 days, lasting 12 to 24 hours.   

Since their estrus cycle is so short, there is on time for the uterus to build up an endometrium lining, which is what causes bleeding. If there is ever any vaginal bleeding noticed, this means there is a problem and the rat needs a vet right away.

Also, when in female rats are in heat, they sometimes have physical signs such as arching her back when touched. Another really cute action that rat owners have reported in their female is the vibrating and fluttering of her ears, and  she may also start running in short fast bursts about the cage.

As for the bluish purple color of her vaginal opening, it could be from heat but if you notice anything different about her behavior such as lack of appetite, breathing heavy or audible congestion, she should see a vet.  Do you have a local vet that is an exotic vet? You should have one just in case so if you want I can give you names of good vets that do NOT call our rats POCKET PETS!  Thats such a disposable term and I think its almost disrespecting the rat!  I know my rats cant fit in my pocket when they are adults!   LOL