[momof3boys3]

I raised 3 rats (brothers) since 1 month after birth. About 3 months ago 1 of the rats (Remy) started behaving agressively at the same time Jacques started growing tumors (we had them removed) Jacques also had several severe abcesses caused by bites from Remy. For about 1 month Jacques was separted from his brothers (healing) we later rejoined Jacques and Kool and separated Remy (he fought with Kool while Jacques was out of the cage-during this time Jacques passed away). Remy alone scratched several deep gashes in his skin. We rejoined him with Kool, they fought. Kool held his own, recently Kool's hind legs became paralized and he died last week, during this time Remy has been scratching more and more. Last evening I noticed that Remy has even scratched near his eyes. I'm at a loss as to what is causing this behavior and what I can do to help him. I clean the wounds with iodine but I fear for him now that he is truly alone. SUGGESTIONS??????? Remy is 2yrs and 2 months

 

[Nibbler]

you may want to consider getting him neutured if he isnt already and bringing him the vet for a check up as he may have mites or maybe another parasite

 

[Vladina]

Yes, a trip to a good local small animal vet is needed as soon as possible. I was thinking mites also. And if he is alone he could be depressed and lonely.

 

[breyer08]

I agree with what Vlad and Nibbler have said. He needs to get to a vet asap. Make sure that the vet does NOT do a skin test for mites--they will almost always produce false negatives. A dose of Revolution will be the best treatment for scratching. I'd have him get a general physical exam while you're at it--he might be dealing with excess stress since the loss of his buddies, and that can also cause illness and excessive mites.