Mycoplasmapulmonosis (Myco)- Myco is a bacteria that causes uper respiritory problems in rats. It is VERY contagious and can even be spread from rat to rat by humans, although it has no affect the human host at all. It is near impossible to find a rat that does not carry myco, unless you have lab rats that have been keeped in sterile labs for many years of breeding. Even lab rats will catch mico quickly if taken out of the lab enviroment. Myco is not curable, but it is treatable. While the best solution is prevention, (by responsible breeding, keeping a clean cage, using proper bedding, and a healthy diet) flair ups can be treated with antibiotics. If you catch the flair up quickly, before it becomes really bad, a bird antibiotic found at a pet store can do the trick. It is very important to take your rat to the vet right away if it gets any worse. Myco flair ups don't have to mean the end, but you have to take care of it right away because the worse it gets the harder is is to fight.
Megacolon- Megacolon is a genetic condition that occurs in rats, mice, cats, dogs, and other animals. The animal is born without the ability to control bowel movments. Some do not start having problems until after the are weaned. The colon fills up and without release, the colon stretches and becomes extended. Hence the name "Mega"colon. Some rats born with Magacolon die a few weeks after birth. Some can live longer but still have a short life. Cats can be given medication and even surgery for this condition so talk to your vet about what you can do for your rat. A high fiber diet, or keeping them on something to replace mothers milk after weaning can give the rat a longer life.
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