Diseases in Rats
Dermatological rat diseases are caused primarily by rat parasites and environmental conditions. Ringtail occurs when a rat's environment is too dry, while staphylococcal dermatitis occurs in particular months and seasons. Parasites such as the spined rat louse and the rat mite come into direct contact with rats and cause anemia and mites, respectively.
Respiratory rat diseases include cilia-associated respiratory bacillus (CAR) and two strains of coronavirus, which infect the upper respiratory tracts and several glands. Coronavirus spreads virally and may also be transmitted through direct contact with parasites. However, most rats develop immunity to this disease. Another common respiratory rat disease is murine respiratory mycoplasmosis. This chronic disease affects both the upper and lower respiratory tracts and ultimately shortens the life span of the afflicted rat. Symptoms include labored breathing, disheveled hair, chattering and coughing fits.