Pet Information > ASK Experts > Exotic Pets > Pet Rats > rat mites or lice

rat mites or lice

21 17:45:02

Question
I recently found some tiny red bugs on our pet rat.  I treated him with one drop of revolution and will treat again in 2 weeks.  My question is...Are they contagious 2 humans?

Answer
 Mites are species-specific, meaning they are only contagious to other rats and not to humans.  You've done the right treatment and it should remove all mites during those two weeks.  Make sure you clean out the cage and all toys to get any that jump off the rat (mites usually live in the bedding and jump on the rat only to feed).  To prevent reinfection, make sure to freeze your bedding for 24-72 hours before use.  Good luck with your rat!