I found a sick wild rat that's weak and breathing funny. What now?

Question

I found a rat in the wild he is weak and he's drinking a lot of water he ate a little bit of a strawberry and he seems very weak I don't know what to do I think he may have a respiratory infection cuz he's breathing a little bit funny it doesn't sound very loud at all. P.S. I got him wet. It's very hot outside.

Rebeccah Wood · Accepted Answer

Hello there! This little rat does not look very good at all. Unfortunately, there are many different diseases that outdoor rats can have - some that are zoonotic (this means transmissable to humans and other animals, so be sure to wash well after handling him) - and without a complete workup by a vet, it's not likely that he's going to survive the next couple of days. Even if you do bring him to the vet, there might not be much that can be done for him at this point. He is thin, he has a hunched body posture (an indicator of pain and severe stress), and his sunken, squinted eyes indicate dehydration. The respiratory symptoms you mentioned are very common in wild rat species, and are usually fatal. I highly suggest that you contact a veterinarian and consider humane euthanasia for this guy. You could also try to call a wildlife rehabber, but only if you can get in touch with one that will take the rat immediately. I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it looks like you've done everything you can at home. If you can't get him to the vet right away, keep him warm and quiet. His little container looks quite comfy, but he needs professional care. Thank you for taking him in, and good luck.

I found a sick wild rat that's weak and breathing funny. What now?

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