Is a pet rat's urine smell dangerous? Can it make my family sick?

Question

I am watching my friends pet rat. I am afraid it may have a disease. The cage smells like urine is this safe to breath? I have a toddler. They found the rat outside about a year ago and have had him inside since. I live in a small apartment and she begged me to watch her rat. Are we going to get sick? I am afraid to touch it or go near it because the smell is so bad I'm afraid to inhale or breath near it. I have breathing issues as it is please help is this safe what should I do? Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | 5 lbs

David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

The smell can be unpleasant but you cannot catch anything from breathing only, most rats do not carry disease although because this one was found outside i would be more careful, try to avoid touching him and wash your hands after you clean his cage or after you do touch him.

Is a pet rat's urine smell dangerous? Can it make my family sick?

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