about my new pet rat

Question
Hello I just had a quick question about my new pet rat and his sneezing. I did just read someone else's question about sneezing and you stated that it could be just nurves and excitment...he is about 3-4 months old, of course my husband brought him home but didnt realize about pet store rats..he doesn't seem to sneeze much at all when sleeping or relaxing in his cage...but when i take him out he starts sneezing..we have only had him for about two weeks, and I have been slowly introducing him to his new surroundings and soon planning on getting him an exstension to his small but temperary home...where i hope he relaxes a bit more..he is still nurvious and a little scared..now my question is, should I bring him to a vet just to make sure, or wait it out for a little while, while he adjusts..?.he is eating good, drinking good..and eyes and nose are clear..I even check his breathing the best I could for him still being nurvious..and they sound good..I am also adding some extra fruits and veggies and hoping to soon add a new healthy friend for him...he is alone and I know that doesnt help health wise either..hope you can help, thank you..I also wanted to find a vet here in Colorado springs who see's exotic pets and rats..

Answer
Hi

Sometimes rats get really excited when they are nervous or even happy or anxious and their histamine levels rise. This of course causes sneezing when this occurs almost like an allergic response. When the stimuli is removed, sneezing stops.
However, being new and all, it wouldnt hurt to establish a vet now and bring him in just for a check up. Bring a stool sample along too, just in case they want one to test for parasites. Pet store rats often carry endoparasites that go undetected for a long time. Its worth it to have peace of mind.  He sounds like he is fine though, but just to be safe it wouldnt hurt.  

Here is a good vet for you to contact:

Dr. Katherine Phillips
Dublin Animal Hospital
888 Dublin Blvd
Colorado Springs CO 80918
Phone:    (719) 593-1336
Website: www.dublinanimalhospital.com