Rat won't eat, is lethargic, and has ear discharge. What should I do?

Question

My rat won't eat or drink. We took her to the vet and she checked her ears and heart rate and said everything was clear, but later that day a brown smelly and sticky liquid was leaking from her left ear. Not sure if it's related. She has been on baytril and mite medication for 2 weeks, but she is still very lethargic and will not eat. I also noticed today that the pads on her hind paws look bruise coloured. Please help, it seems like every day she loses more weight. Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Female | unspayed

Lauren Kennedy, DVM · Accepted Answer

Based on what you are describing it does sound as if Lucy is very ill. I would recommend either having her rechecked at your veterinarian or asking for a referral to an exotic capitalistic that can perform more specialized tests on small mammals like blood work, x-rays, and ultrasounds. Based on the age of your rat she may have something more serious going on like an internal infection or cancer. In the meantime, try to encourage Lucy to eat as best you can by offering her her favorite foods and/or syringe feeding her some baby food. I'm sorry to hear that she is not doing well and I hope your vet can help you find answers. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

Rat won't eat, is lethargic, and has ear discharge. What should I do?

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