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My rat has a URI. What OTC meds can I give him to avoid vet costs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Rat | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 24 days old | 0 lbs

I’m 100% positive my rat has a uri what over the counter meds can I give him? A vet is really expensive

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 25th, 2019

Unfortunately your rat will most likely need antibiotics to help him get over his upper respiratory tract infection and you will need a prescription from your vet for this. It is important to treat this type of issue early so the infection does not spread to the lungs and cause pneumonia. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 22nd, 2020

    Thanks for reaching out about Ceasar and including photos. There are no over the counter available antibiotics, nor can we prescribe a medication without seeing a patient, so a veterinary visit is recommended. The majority of respiratory problems in rats are due to a bacteria-like organism called mycoplasma. Antibiotics could help the condition but rarely cures. At home, monitor heat support, appetite and water consumption. Vitamin C supplementation at 25 mg/kg body weight once daily, to stimulate appetite. Good luck.

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