walking funny

[CC_luvs_rats]

My 1.5 year old rat seems to be walking with her head to one side all of the sudden. She has never done this before. Also when I put her on my shoulder she loses ballence and almost falls off. She's sat on my shoulder since I got her. what could this be ? Thanx in advance! 

[VegetarianPetLuvR]

Sounds like she's got a little head tilt to me..I don't know very much on this at all, I've only seen it discussed. I believe it may be an ear infection, or possibly a tumor? Anyway, someone will soon come along and give you a better answer, lol.

[Beth]

There are two main things that cause a head tilt in rats: inner ear infection and a Pituitary tumor. Either way your rat needs to go to the vets as fast as possible. Head tilts resulting from infection need to be treated immediately and aggressively with antibiotics and steroids (usually prednisone).

I would print this page out about inner ear infections and the RMCA drug chart which gives the correct doses of meds for rats and take them both with you to the vets.

In the mean time try to make sure that your rat can't fall off levels in her cage and offer her foods that are easy to eat, stuff that's soft like oatmeal, baby foods etc. Make sure she's drinking enough and she's kept nice and warm. And no more shoulder sitting for the time being!

Beth

[Christy]

I agree with Beth plus wanted to add in that a stroke can also cause a head tilt.  Often along with a stroke comes less mobility on one side of the body as well.  This movement can be regained if treated though.  Ear infection is probably the first course of action though, IMO.  Hope she's ok.       

[CC_luvs_rats]

I took her to the vet today and she has an ear infection and is being treated with antibiotics and steroids. Thank you sooo much

[Beth]

I'm glad to hear that ratty has an ear infection (that's got to be better than a tumour or stroke!!). Please make sure that the vet gave you the right amount of antibiotics depending on how much ratty weighs and there's enough for 14 days minumum. Don't put them in her water, mix them with baby food or other yummy stuff - that way you will know she's getting the full amount and her water won't taste all horrible.

Scritches to ratty!

Beth

[Sugarfoxx]

SOunds like she is on the right track!  It may take a long time for the head tilt to go away....or it may go away fast.

Dont be alarmed if you dont see her improving right off.  The infection may be clearing up just fine but again, it may take the tilt longer.   Actually, my girl Noel NEVER recovered from it fully but went from severe tilt to mild over a 7 month span.  They adjust fine though usually and can eat, drink and walk ok.  Once the infection eases up she wont seek so off balance!

Good luck!  Giver he a few kisses from us!