Talking to Your Vet About Rats

How to help advocate for your pet rat at the vet.

Introduction

Pet rats are intelligent, loving companions — and just like cats or dogs, they deserve access to proper veterinary care. But because rats are considered "exotic" animals, many vets may not have extensive experience treating them. That’s where you, the rat owner, come in. Being your rat’s advocate means asking the right questions, coming prepared, and making sure your vet has the tools and knowledge needed to offer the best care possible.

Whether you're scheduling a routine checkup or dealing with a health crisis, this guide will help you confidently and respectfully talk to your vet about your rat’s needs.

Not All Vets See Rats — Start By Finding the Right One

Not every veterinarian is comfortable treating rats, and that’s okay. The first step is making sure your chosen clinic is experienced with small mammals.

Ask upfront:

  • “Do you treat rats regularly?”

  • “Is there a specific vet on staff with exotic or rodent experience?”

  • “Do you offer services like neutering, abscess treatment, or dental work for rats?”


If the answer is “no,” you’re not being difficult by looking elsewhere. You’re being a good pet parent.

Pro tip: Some exotic vets book out weeks in advance, so it’s smart to establish care early — before you need urgent help.

If you are local to New England, click here to see vets that see rats in your area.

Come Prepared With Details

Because rats are small and fast-moving, exams can be a little tricky. Make things easier for your vet by writing down symptoms, changes in behavior, and any questions you have ahead of time.

Helpful info to bring:

  • Weight changes (especially if tracked weekly)

  • Appetite, water intake, or changes in fecal matter/urination

  • Behavior shifts (lethargy, aggression, hiding, etc.)

  • Onset and progression of any symptoms

  • A list of medications or supplements your rat is on

  • Photos or videos of the behavior if it’s intermittent (e.g., limping, wheezing)


Don’t worry about sounding like you're over-prepared — a good vet will appreciate the effort.

Speak Up, Ask Questions, and Take Notes

If your vet recommends treatment or a diagnosis that sounds unfamiliar, ask them to explain it clearly. You're not being rude — you're being an advocate.

Some good phrases to use:

  • “Can you walk me through what this means?”

  • “What are the possible side effects of that medication?”

  • “Are there other treatment options available?”

  • “Do you have experience treating this condition in rats before?”


If you’re ever uncomfortable or unsure, it’s okay to ask for a second opinion or time to think things over.

Be Polite, But Don’t Be Afraid to Share Your Knowledge

As someone who lives with and observes your rats daily, your insight matters. Ethical breeders and experienced owners often know the nuances of rat health, diet, and behavior better than a general-practice vet might.

For example:

  • If your vet doesn’t know that Revolution (kitten dose) is safe for treating mites in rats, offer to show them trusted dosing charts or research.

  • If a vet recommends antibiotics that are risky for rats (like Amoxicillin alone, without clavulanic acid), it’s okay to gently ask if they’ve considered alternatives like Baytril or Doxycycline.


The goal is never to argue — just to collaborate.

Trust Your Gut — And Trust the Science

Sometimes you’ll be the most experienced rat person in the room. That doesn’t mean your vet isn’t skilled — just that rodents may not be their specialty.

If a vet dismisses your concerns, refuses to treat your rat because of their size or “short lifespan,” or makes jokes about rodents being pests, it may be time to find a provider who takes your animals seriously.

Your rats deserve respectful, compassionate care. And so do you.

Vet Checklist for Pet Rats

Use this checklist to prepare for any vet visit — routine or urgent:

Basic Info

  • Rat’s name, age, sex

  • Approximate weight (preferably recent)

  • Number of rats in mischief

  • Any recent changes to cage mates, environment, or diet


What to Bring

  • Written list of symptoms and timeline

  • List of current medications, supplements, and treatments

  • Photos or short videos of concerning behavior (if intermittent)

  • Your rat’s health and weight history (if tracked)

  • Sample of feces (if GI issues or parasites suspected)

  • Carrier with soft bedding and ventilation

  • A calm cage mate if your rat is stressed when alone (optional)


Questions to Ask the Vet

  • What are the possible diagnoses?

  • What tests are necessary?

  • What medications will be prescribed, and what are the side effects?

  • How do I administer medications properly?

  • Are follow-up visits needed?


After the Appointment

  • Save all receipts and treatment notes

  • Follow dosing schedule precisely

  • Continue tracking symptoms and behavior changes

  • Contact your vet if symptoms worsen or new issues arise

Symptom Log Template

Keep this log leading up to (or after) a vet visit to monitor your rat’s health consistently.