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My new rat is sneezing, sounds squeaky, and has red discharge. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Rat | Male | unneutered

My rat has been sneezing. Sometimes he sounds like a squeaky toy. There is some poryphrin around the eyes and nose but not excessive that it's there the whole day. Listening to him sniff, I can hear him but it isn't really wheezing. It has already been over two weeks since I got him. He's currently on aspen bedding. His cage mate shows none of these symptoms. I've been told this might develop into pneumonia? I can't find a vet locally that treats rats

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on February 8th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Gerat. The most likely cause is mycoplasma, which is a bacteria problem. Antibiotics can often improve clinical signs, but often is not curable, so this could be an on-again/off-again problem. A veterinary visit is required to prescribe to appropriate antibiotics. The website for the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians (AEMV.org) might help you find a vet. Stress is often associated so review diet and husbandry and correct problems. Good luck.

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