It’s a common misconception that rats are cold-blooded and therefore can’t get cold. While it’s true that rats are better able to tolerate cold temperatures than warm temperatures they can still get cold. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause rats to become inactive to stop eating and in extreme cases to die.
There are two main ways that rats can get cold:
1. Exposure to low temperatures – If a rat is exposed to temperatures that are too low they will become hypothermic. Hypothermia is a condition in which the body’s temperature drops below that of normal body temperature. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering slow heart rate slow breathing and loss of consciousness.
2. Lack of adequate shelter – If a rat does not have access to shelter they will be exposed to the elements and can become cold. Shelters can include nesting material such as shredded paper or fabric as well as hiding places such as under furniture or in burrows.
To prevent rats from getting cold it’s important to provide them with a warm safe environment. This can be done by:
1. controlling the temperature – If you are keeping rats indoors make sure the temperature is kept at a comfortable level between 18-24 degrees Celsius.
2. providing adequate shelter – As mentioned above rats need access to shelter to stay warm. This shelter can be in the form of a nest box or igloo as well as hiding places around the home.
3. using bedding – Bedding material such as straw or hay can help insulate rats and keep them warm.
4. providing a heat source – If the temperature is cold you may need to provide a heat source such as a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter.
5. providing food and water – It’s important to make sure rats have access to food and water as they will need extra energy to stay warm.
If you think your rat may be cold there are a few things you can do to help them:
1. Move them to a warmer location – If possible move your rat to a warmer location such as a heated room or garage.
2. Provide a heat source – As mentioned above you may need to provide a heat source such as a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter.
3. Cover them with a blanket – Gently place a blanket over your rat to help them retain heat.
4. Offer food and water – Make sure your rat has access to food and water as they will need extra energy to stay warm.
5. Seek veterinary care – If you are concerned about your rat’s health seek veterinary care.
Do rats get cold easily?
Yes rats are susceptible to colds and can get them easily.
How can you tell if a rat has a cold?
If a rat has a cold you may notice that it has a runny nose sneezes often or has watery eyes.
What should you do if you think your rat has a cold?
If you think your rat has a cold you should take it to the vet to be checked out.
Can humans catch colds from rats?
No humans cannot catch colds from rats.
What are some other illnesses that rats can get?
Some other illnesses that rats can get include pneumonia respiratory infections and ear infections.
How can you help prevent your rat from getting a cold?
You can help prevent your rat from getting a cold by keeping its cage clean and free of drafts.
What should you do if your rat does get a cold?
If your rat gets a cold you should take it to the vet and follow their instructions.
Can rats get the flu?
Yes rats can get the flu and it can be deadly for them.
What are some symptoms of the flu in rats?
Some symptoms of the flu in rats include fever runny nose sneezing and lethargy.
What should you do if you think your rat has the flu?
If you think your rat has the flu you should take it to the vet immediately and follow their instructions.
Can rats get colds from other rats?
Yes rats can get colds from other rats so it’s important to keep them away from sick rats.
How long do colds last in rats?
Colds usually last for about a week in rats.
during a cold Should you change your rat’s diet?
Yes during a cold you should give your rat a diet that is high in vitamin C.
What other things can you do to help a rat with a cold?
You can also help a rat with a cold by making sure it stays warm and has plenty of fluids.
What should you not do when your rat has a cold?
You should not give your rat any medication without first consulting your vet.
