red mucus and loss of balance

Question
We have a 1yr. old patchwork rat that has in 2 days time developed tears of red mucus and has weakness and loss of balance. She was well 2 days ago and suddenly has gotten worse fast. We have few vets in the Southern Illinois area that work with rats and it is Sunday nothing is open. Is there something we can do or that we should try. There are 2 other rats that are in the same large cage, none of them have these signs. We moved Herminonie out of the cage and placed her in our bedroom to monitor.

Answer
The red mucus is normal for a rat who doesn't feel well; and generally considered an unrelated symptom to the loss of balance and lethargy. To me, that indicates either an ear infection, stroke, or myco related spinal or brain issue. She really does need to see a vet to diagnose; although they may not be able to do much for her. If you can encourage her to eat soft, palatable foods like Ensure, lab blocks soaked in a little bit of water or chicken broth, soft veggies, baby food and yogurt or pudding; and keep her comfortable. Encourage her to drink, but don't force it, as you want to avoid her aspirating on it. Be sure her cage is draft free and she has enough to curl up in to stay warm, but isn't hot.

Good luck; I hope she feels better!