Hercules is Limping - Paw Talk

mtmaughan · #1 03-30-2008, 01:49 AM

Hercules (rat) has started favoring one of his hind legs. He still walks on it, but he kind of hops and when he sits he puts all his weight on the other leg. I've examined him and there are no visible wounds on his leg or foot. I moved his leg and foot, and squeezed everywhere, but he didn't give me any indication of what was hurting. Of course this popped up on a Saturday, and the emergency vet here doesn't have a rodent person so I'm pretty much stuck waiting until Monday to call my vet.

At the same time, I know you can't put a cast or a splint on a rat, so I'm wondering what I could even do for him if he sprained or tweaked something. I'm hoping someone here will have some encouragement for me. Has anyone experienced a similar situation?

lilspaz68 · #2 03-30-2008, 09:54 AM

So I take it Hercule's foot or leg isn't swelling up? Yes it sounds like a minor sprain, kind of like when we take a mis-step and turn our ankle and favor it for a bit. It should heal up in a few days.

mtmaughan · #3 03-30-2008, 11:33 AM

Thanks for the response. I'm sure he will be fine, I just don't like to see him not feeling well. I've moved the stuff in his cage so that his house, food, and water are all on the bottom floor. Unfortunately, I was in the midst of trying to introduce him to my other rats so they could live together. I guess I will put that on hold until he feels better.

laydeerodentzz · #4 03-30-2008, 01:06 PM

It does sound like a little sprain, so long as he is eating and drinking normaly, I wouldn't worry. Just try to keep him as comfty as possible-sounds like you're doing a good job!

clairebee1 · #5 03-30-2008, 01:28 PM

hope hes ok !

SugarLovesRats · #6 03-30-2008, 07:02 PM

Hey update? How is you were you able to get to the vet?

mtmaughan · #7 03-30-2008, 09:45 PM

No, we haven't gotten to the vet yet. Nobody here will see rodents on the weekends.

But as everybody has said, it's probably just a sprain, so I'm trying not to freak out about it. I will call the vet tomorrow!

mtmaughan · #8 03-31-2008, 09:55 PM

Herc is much more active today, and though he is still limping he is obviously feeling significantly better. So I am holding off on a vet trip but keeping an eye on him.

lilspaz68 · #9 04-01-2008, 07:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mtmaughan


	Herc is much more active today, and though he is still limping he is obviously feeling significantly better. So I am holding off on a vet trip but keeping an eye on him.

That is what I would do. He should recover soon, and you will see definite improvements day by day.

mulder · #10 04-01-2008, 07:53 AM

im glad he's getting better. i know its hard to see them hurt and be able to do nothing. best wishes!

laydeerodentzz · #11 04-01-2008, 09:42 AM

I'm glad he is getting better to! Give him some lovin' from me lol! Good luck *hugs*

fatratwitdachee · #12 04-01-2008, 10:08 AM

why dont you make him a little rattie splint LOL!!

no just kiddin i hope he pulls around pray for the little guy