How to Treat Fleas on a Rat

Pet rats rarely have fleas.

Of the ailments that may afflict pet rats, fleas are not very common. A rat that is scratching excessively is more likely to have a problem with too many mites, an infestation of lice or a skin condition. However, if you have other pets, especially those that go outside, such as cats and dogs, they might pick up fleas, which in turn could infest your rats. Because fleas rarely infest small rodents, there aren't many treatments specifically designed for rats. The best initial approach is to treat other animals and thoroughly clean the rat cage and surrounding area.

Things You'll Need

• Flea comb
• Pet carrier
• Refuse sack
• Dishwashing liquid
• Vacuum cleaner
• Cleaning cloths and sponges
• Disinfectant
• Paper towels
• Pet nail trimmer
• Flea treatment for small rodents

Instructions

1. Examine your rats carefully. Make sure they really have fleas before doing anything else. If you haven't already seen fleas, try using a flea comb, especially around the rat's hindquarters. Tiny red bugs you can barely see are lice, not fleas. Mites can't be seen with the naked eye and other conditions need to be diagnosed by a vet.

2. Treat all other animals in the household, their bedding, and the carpets and soft furnishings in your home with appropriate flea treatments.

3. Remove your rats from their cage and place them in a pet carrier or a rat-proofed room while you clean the cage and surrounding area.

4. Remove all bedding and disposable accessories such as cardboard boxes. Place in a refuse sack, seal tightly and place in a garbage can outside. Wash other toys and accessories with dishwashing liquid, rinse and leave to dry.

5. Vacuum the cage and its surroundings thoroughly.

6. Wipe the cage down with a mild disinfectant. Rinse or sponge away the traces and dry with paper towels. Replace with fresh bedding and new or cleaned accessories.

7. Check your rats' nails and trim if necessary. This reduces damage from scratching. If you don't know how to trim rat nails, see your vet.

8. Treat your rats with a medication specially formulated for small rodents if the fleas persist. Follow the instructions on the packaging exactly and, ideally, also seek advice from a vet. Some treatments are topical and others go in the rats' food.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact your vet if you are unsure about any rat ailment.

• Never use a flea product for other animals on your rat, except on the advice of a vet. Because rats are small and sensitive, products that are safe for larger pets may be extremely dangerous to them.

References

• Fancy Rats: Parasites
• Pet Education: Skin Parasites of Mice and Rats
• Scottish Rat Club: Rats as Pets