Need advice about my rat who is on anitbiotics(rat EXPERTS only, please)

At the moment, my rat, Sneezer, is on Baytril for a mild respiratory infection. The vet said keep her on it for ten days and that is all I must do, but I work in a pet store and have also done a lot of reading that says she should be on a pro-biotic supplement for five days after her treatment is over.

What should I give her and where do I get it?

Also, I have read that I can give her Echinacea in her water (using honey to disguise the taste) on a cycle--one week of Echinacea, three weeks off. And I've read giving her garlic cloves on a regular basis will also boost her immune system.

Would it be beneficial for me to do this?

(I'd appreciate it if only people who REALLY know their stuff answer these questions. Thanks!)

Probiotics are a good idea, but definitely not garlic! Not good for any animals.

There are specially made rodent probiotics available - Protexin is one of the them, comes as a powder that goes in their drinking water. You can also get mucolytics (Bisolvon is one) as powder that will help keep sinuses clear. I don't know if these things are available from anywhere other than a vets.

Also be aware that once rats have respiratory infections they have them for life - meaning the symptoms may crop up from time to time, needing repeat medication. Probiotics may help prevent this, as will an appropriate diet and avoiding dusty bedding and anything made from pine or cedar (working in a pet store you may well know that)