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My old rat's leg gets caught. Is a smaller cage safer for him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Rat | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 11 months old | 0 lbs

Hi, so my pet Rat cookie is getting old now and has lost feeling in 1 of his back legs but has no issues getting around but due to him not being able to use it he can't climb properly and has been getting his leg caught in the bars, would it be cruel of me to swap him and his brother out to a slightly smaller cage that would be easier for him to explore, as I'm terrified he will break his leg

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on February 19th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Cookie and including photos. Placing in a small cage would help prevent complications. Rear limb paresis (weakness) is not uncommon in aging rats. Providing soft substrate such as old towels/T-shirts works well. Allowing time out for exercise is still important. Anti-inflammatory medications could prevent progression of paresis, but a veterinary visit is needed to prescribe. Good luck.

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