Brody may have lice

Question
I really think my rat has lice...she itches and she has little white things that look like nits...and they don't just brush off, they have to be pulled off. I don't know where she could have gotten them...but I'm worried about her. She is take doxycycline and Baytril for myco...and I don't want to overwhelm her with even more meds. What should i do to take care of the lice and will i over do it on the meds (she is about 6 weeks old). Also, can dogs get rat lice? I don't want her to give it to my dog. Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Jessica

Your rat may have parasites due to her illness. Believe it or not, when a rats immune system is compromised from illness, they are very prone to lice or mites. They can come in right in a bag of litter (Its a good idea to freeze the bedding for at least 24 hours prior to use to kill any eggs or parasites)
If she does have them, using ivermectin or revolution from the vet will not mix with the antibiotics so its not like she is being overwhelmed with medications. Not treating the parasites can lead to infection from sores due to scratching and itching and also anemia from the parasites feeding on the rats blood.  Also your dog is safe from the lice so dont worry. They are species specific.

Hope this helps!!!!!

Sandra