Ratfat
Ratfat2007-11-24 22:14:29
The sniffles is most likely a respiratory infection. It's often a chronic condition in rats. I'd get it checked out as soon as you can so it doesn't turn into pneumonia or something worse.
I know this isn't what you want to hear, but, you really should take Harry to the vet. His sniffles are not a good sign. And his lethargy may be due to the sniffles. When you take Harry to the vet, everything could be fine and then the vet could reccomend a special diet for him to help him get back to a healthier size!
Don't wait to take him to the vet, you don't wan't Harry to suffer.
I hope everything goes well for you and little Harry!
My rat is a bit chubby as well. Make sure you are not overfeeding your rat. Stay away from any fatty food for him, and try feeding him broccoli--it prevents tumors. And overweight rats are in great risk of tumors. My rat will only run around if i put her on the ground and follow her around, she loves the thrill of being on the floor. And as for your rats sniffling--most rats sneeze every once in a while, but if it seems to be more than usual, it may be seriuos. Signs of a lung problem are discharge from the eyes and nose, Slowness and snoring. Make sure your rat's cage is in a place that doesn't get drafts or is too hot or cold, because it could cause a lung problem. hope this helped!
And you really should take your rat to the vet--My rat had a lung infection and when i took her to the vet they prescribed some meds that cleared everything all up. it cost around $60 or so.