Rat with lice

Question
Today my daughter noticed that her 3 month old, female pet rat has lice, (this is currently the only one she has).  I've found (and removed) 5 lice and also removed a couple of nits, cleaned the cage and put in fresh bedding.  I am going to call the vet on Monday to see about ivermectin. My main question however, is to see if you can tell me if it is true that rat lice are "species specific", as I have heard. We also have two cats and a dog and I am concerned as to whether or not the rat's lice could "spread" to the other animals through clothing, upholstery or bedding contact, etc. I used to keep pet rats when I was a kid, but this is my first encounter with one that has lice.  Also, any suggestions about non-toxic/natural lice treatments (other than cedar oil products)?  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Jed

Good news! It is species specific so no worries there. As for other treatments, to be honest, none are really effective like a real pesticide such as ivermectin.
Also, its a good idea to freeze the bedding for 24 hours before using it. Chances are high that this is where the parasite came from in the first place.

regards

Sandra