Question
Zepplin
Hi there Sandra...
I got my rats about 9months from a pet shop. One was the dominant (Zepplin) the other one being more timid but over time this has changed and the other (Metric) has become more confident and a bit of a bully.
I started to notice what looked like tiny specs of dry blood around Zepplins neck a few months ago and I thought it could have been them fighting so I kept a good eye on them but they didnt really seem to be.
In time both rats started to have the same marks on them in the same places. Again I was keeping an eye on them, making sure they weren't fighting, they occasionally squeaked when they were grooming each other but that was about it, generally the seem friends.
What Ive noticed more recently is that they both seem to scratch and itch themselves frequently sometimes jumping like its REALLY itchy and then nibble themselves for relief kind of thing? They also groom each other quite forcefully.
Because of this I cleaned the cage thoroughly, (they live in an aquarium) making sure it was really sparkling, changed all bedding and toys and things and also gave them a little wash and put a tiny bit of vanilla essence on them just to see if that helped if it was them fighting. Although they loved the new upgraded cage it didnt help, they are still scratching alot and the little red stains on their fur are peppering the whole body (which I can see quite well as they are both white)
They are eating, drinking and still being sociable so Im starting to think its some kind of mite of something?
I havn't taken them to a vet or anything yet as they seem fine but Im happy to do so if they need it.
Anyway, I hope that's enough information.
I look forward to hearing from you and thankyou in advance for your expertise!
Sian
AnswerThis looks like porphyrin smearing. If you unsure what porphyrin is, please check my website for info and photos. I am sure this is what your seeing. The rats stress and the reddish discharge from the nose, eyes and mouth smear onto light colored fur.
You need to remove them from the aquarium and give them a spacious wire cage to live in. Aquariums present poor circulation and contribute to the deadly mycoplasma bacteria. No matter how often you clean the tank, urine is strong, esp in intact males and will build up the ammonia scent in a day. This irritates delicate lungs and causes respiratory infection if not now, for sure as they age.
Here is the URL to my website:
http://www.freewebs.com/crittercity/bloodynoseandeyes.htm
Zepplin is PRECIOUS, btw!!!!
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