sick raties

[ItsRainingRats]

   I have 3 rats all on baytril and doxy for over a week now and their symptoms are not decreasing.  This has always worked for me in the many years I have had rats.  I am wondering if the heat is contributing to their lack of improvement.  Any thoughts??

[scout]

Could be... what's the temp where you are? Ideal temps for rats are 65-85^o F (around 20 - 25^o C, I think.)

It's also possible that your rats have a virus, in which case antibiotics will only keep opportunistic bacteria from causing problems while their immune systems fight the virus.

Make sure they're well hydrated. Pinch their skin above their shoulder blades and let go. The skin should pop back in a second or less. If not, your rats are dehydrated and you will need to syringe feed them water. You can add a little sugar to their water to encourage them to drink. Just be sure you clean the bottle frequently as sugar can cause all sorts of molds and other nasties to grow in their water bottle.

You might also consider calling your vet and discussing your ratties' lack of improvement. It may be your vet will want to see them again to recommend a change. Good luck!

[Paul]

Four weeks and no change is a long time.
We kind of work to a rough guideline of:
If the first dose of meds doesn't result in a slow down of the deterioration in 24-36 hours, phone the vet for further advice.
It may be that a higher dose could help.

After 36-48 hours of the first dose of meds being given the rattie shouldn't be getting any worse.
If they are, phone the vet.
The meds possibly aren't working and alternatives may be required.

I'm really sorry I can't offer anything on your specifics though.

Paul

[kmw]

Actually, the post said "for over a week", not four weeks.  

[Paul]

It's past midnight on this side of the big pond and my eyes are starting to go.

But I reckon a week with no sign of improvement should still be questioned.

Paul