my rats breathing

Question
hi i have a pet rat who is two years old today who has been suffering since he was 6 weeks old with chestiness and constant sneezing. He has always ate very well he is a fatty ratty but lately all medication the vet has given him he wont eat the food i put it in so he isnt improving. Today the vet gave predisonal tablets for him to take half everyday do you think these will help or do you think it is kinder to put him to sleep, at moment he eats drinks and runs around but am so worried if he might be in any pain i had his brother put to sleep last november because he was gasping for breath so i knew with him it was best to do the right thing but now im so unsure because i always think i could of tried more medication to keep him well. Sorry to go on and hope you can help me thankyou.

Answer
Most likely the prednisone will help.. it's a steroid and it sounds like he's suffering from congestive heart failure. You'll know within a week if the steroids are helping by drawing the fluid away from the heart - he'll behave more normally and sound better - but this will be an ongoing thing until he passes away.. it's a constant treatment.

The decision is really yours to make, hon. I can't make it for you, I have no idea how you feel about the situation. Best of luck.