losing fur

Question
hi i have a rat i had him since September of 07. he is losing his fur on his back and both his shoulder's and his mouth. Im starting to worry about him and now he is starting to lose weight what should i do?

Answer
Take him to a vet.

Hair loss can be nutritional, behavioral, physical health or cage condition related. Nutritionally, hair loss generally occurs when a rat is malnourished or lacking protein in their diet. Behaviorally, rats are bored and barber the fur off their chest and feet - this doesn't sound like his case. Physically, it could be mites or even skin cancer. Cage conditions -- exactly that -- if he's living in squalor, which I doubt, but even so, it has to be said - that could lead to hygiene issues.

If he's losing weight I'd say its a nutritional or physical thing and he should be seen by a vet to determine what and how to treat it.