Bacterial urinary infection in rats

Symptoms

Both rats (and humans) with leptospirosis present flu-like symptoms. These include:

• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Nasal discharge
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Weakness
• Fever
• Loss of appetite and weight
• Increased thirst

Causes

This urinary infection is caused by theLeptospira spp. bacterium, and is transmitted by the urine of an infected animal; in this case, a rat.

Diagnosis

The veterinarian will diagnose leptospirosis by identifying theLeptospira spp. bacterium through blood and urine tests.

Treatment

Because of its highly contagious nature, most veterinarians do not recommend treating rats infected with leptospirosis. Instead, euthanasia is generally suggested.

Living and Management

Be sure to clean and thoroughly disinfect the rat's environment.

Prevention

The only way to prevent leptospirosis infection in your rat is to prevent any contact with wild rats or mice.