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Can I safely use sulfur lime dip to treat ringworm on my pet rat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 5 days old

Can I use sulfur lime dip on my rat to treat ringworm?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 6th, 2020

Hello. Yes you can. You want to make a 1:40 dilution ( 1 part dip to 40 parts water ) & dip Sonic once a week for 6 weeks. Make sure you do not get any dip in his mouth or eyes & he is not not allowed to groom until he is throughly dry. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 12th, 2019

    Hello. Are you sure this is ringworm? It usually takes a culture to determine if a skin condition is truly ringworm, which is a fungus. You cannot purchase an antifungal medication online as it requires an actual prescription from a veterinarian. You can purchase an over the counter dip called Lime Sulfur & treat your rats this way, if you are sure this is what you have. Make sure you have thoroughly cleaned the enclosure & place new bedding /substrate so that once the rats are treated, they are placed in a clean environment. When using the dip dilute the dip to 1 part dip to 40 parts water, & do not let the rats groom themselves until the are completely dry. You can assist drying with a hair dryer set on LOW, but still be very careful not to overheat your animals. You will need to repeat the dips once a week for 6 weeks to achieve a cure. Good luck & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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