I think my baby might be sick

Question
QUESTION: Hi, and thanks for taking my question. I have a pair of hairless rats that are 2 yr old sisters, one of which has lost quite a bit of weight in a short amount of time. She seems to be quite lethargic and wants to cuddle more than usual. I was worried that the larger female was being stingy with the food, so i have just begun separating them to eat. I also have noticed one of her eyes has a slight bluish gray haze to it. There is nothing in the cage that i have changed, not bedding or food. Any thoughts on what could be ailing my baby?

ANSWER: The haze in her eye could be one of a few things: Cataract or infection.
Loss of weight could indicate heart disease or kidney disease. Is she breathing heavy and fast?  What does her diet consist of?


Do you have an exotic vet? I dont mean a vet that sees exotics, but a true exotic vet?  If not, please allow me to give you some names of vets in your area (of course I need your location)




---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks again for your response, my rat eats Vitablock and occasionally fresh carrots. She isn't breathing heavy, nor does she sound congested.  I am not aware of an exotic vet in my Orlando area. Orlando, Florida 32825

Answer
You should read my website on proper diet.  She can eat tons more than just a carrot and vita block!  You want her protein and fat kept low though to avoid kidney disease.  Check it out here for more info on a healthy diet.  


http://www.freewebs.com/crittercity/ratsandahealthydiet.htm


Be sure the food you use is not exceeding 15% protein and corn is not the first listed ingredient. It should also not contain alfalfa.  Although they probably have been on this food for their two years of life, it doesn't hurt to beef up their diet and add more variety to it.  A good diet extends their life. Just ask my boy, Bo, who is 9 months into his 3rd year of life.



As for vets, below are some clinics that have vets that see exotics and are members of the association of exotic mammal veterinarians.


Dr. Kerry Jackson
East Orlando Animal Hospital      
7600 Lake Underhill Drive
Orlando FL 32822
Phone:    407-277-3547
Website: www.eoah.com

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Lake Howell Animal Clinic     
856 Lake Howell Road
Maitland FL 32751
Phone:    407-628-8000
Website: www.lakehowellanimalclinic.com


I would make an appt. to have that eye looked at. Hairless rats are prone to eye infections due to the fact they lack eyelashes to keep out debris.  Even if it is an eye infection and it cannot be treated, the eye can be removed safely and the rat can have a full recovery. I have a rat with just one eye and he is awesome and is 2 and a half years old!  It could be a cataract as stated before, but without seeing it I cant be certain. An eye infection could certainly make her feel under the weather. I just dont like the weight loss she is having and also suggest again to be sure you know the protein level in her food and if its higher than 15% be sure to let the vet know this as well.

Keep her nice and warm and hydrated well till you see the vet, which I suggest you try to get her in before the week is over. Good luck and please keep me posted.