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What would stop my Rat from scratching himself so hardcore like2007-11-24 22:18:36

I know there is claw trimming, but does the vet charge much to do that for you?

What is good to put on scabs to help them heal faster?

I regularly bathe him gently and clean out his cage without using anything harsh to clean the cage with as well.

He's healthy and not in any pain and isn't mite infected.

Answers:

Yes, the vet will charge you for nail-trimming, I wouldn't know the cost in your area but my vet will charge $12.00 and not call it an office visit. Office visits are $45.00.

The regular bathing could be the culprit in drying out his skin, preventing the natural oils from doing their magic, and/or changing the pH of the skin, which allows bacteria to invade.

You can still bathe him if you want to, but forgo the soap and opt for a soothing, scab-healing, warm bath of Chamomile or Calendula tea. Either herb will keep his skin in good condition and leave him smelling wonderful.

Chamomile:

http://altnature.com/gallery/chamomile.h...

Calendula:

http://health.howstuffworks.com/calendul...

spazrats

"my life has gone to the rats"

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They charge 10 bucks to clip nails (my rat goes regular to get clipped). He might have dry skin or fleas. Bathing him too much causes dry skin. Once every 2 weeks is fine for a bath. Look into dry skin treatments at petco or petsmart for rodents. See if that works.

Good luck

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Hi, I would advise a visit to the vet about the problem of him itching like that. My rat did the very same thing, and he had an allergy to his bedding. Have him checked over before you try anything else, to be on the safe side. If he does have an allergy, anything else that you may try could only make matters worse. The vet can provide you with a proper medication to help him heal. As far as the charge to trim his nails, my vet only charges 2 dollars. Call the office and ask them what their fees are. Good luck, hope your ratty feels better fast!

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I immediately know your problem.

You said that you bathe him regularly. The constant bathing is causing his oils to become unbalanced. His skin is either dried out and itchy, or oily and itchy. That is why is scratching "so hardcore like".

Sorry that I can't answer your second and third questions.