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Why is my rat squealing when I touch her tail or butt area?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Female | unspayed | 8 months old

My rat Luna keeps squealing every time I touch her near the base of her tail and by her butt. She is an albino rat. My other rat Shadow and Shadow's father are her parents. What could be wrong with her?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 4th, 2018

I would recommend making sure Luna is defecting normally. If she is constipated or having diarrhea she may be painful in the area of her tail/rectum. I would also recommend looking closely around her rectum/tail to make sure there are no wounds present. She may have discomfort in this area because of pain/arthritis in her hips as well. If she is still acting painful for more than a couple of days and/or if you find a wound or notice abnormal stool and/or a decreased appetite you should probably take her in to be examined by your vet. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck!

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