Black Tail On rat

Question
We have found a pet Rat that was out in the cold, She has since been inside and has been very friendly. Since being inside half her Tail has turned black and dried up. we think it might be frost bite. Is there something we need to do or will she be ok?

Answer
Hi Rod


The poor little rat! I am so glad you found her and save her life. What a shame someone would turn loose an innocent animal meant to be kept indoors. Domestics are just that, domestic, and far from wild. That upsets me and I am so glad she is with you now. Your my hero today!

About that tail: What your seeing is necrotic tissue. Chances are it may be frost bite but it also may have been caught in something and she pulled away and it degloved her tail.

The tail is a pretty serious body part on a rat, believe it or not. Its an extension of the rats vertebrae and is loaded with bone and nerves and blood vessels too.
I would take her to the vet. The black part will probably need to be amputated and she may need antibiotics. In fact the vet may just give her meds to prevent gangrene and let the black part fall off on its own since that is what may occur anyhow. Either way, she has a second chance at life now and to keep her healthy and possibly prevent something painful if not dangerous to occur, a vet is the best bet. If you  need someone that knows about rats in your area, let me know and I can find one for you.

Again, thanks for making my day by saving that rats life.