Lice Or Mites?

[rattyratgirl]

Star decided to worry me again.
Two nights ago I was playing with the girls when I picked up Star and examined her because she was scratching. I saw a lot of scabs but nothing else. Suddenly when I touched a spot she sqeaked and jumped out of my arms and ran away.
I then picked up Ruby to see if she had scabs and she was clean. What happened? Star has been sleeping a lot lately too.
I need info before I take her to the vet, but I plan on taking her to the vet soon. (A different one)
Thanks
I'm not sure if i should put this in ER or just health. But it seems a little more then "just" health.

 

[lilspaz68]

Read this article and you can determine what it is and how to treat it.

viewtopic.php?f=26&t=28715

 

[jorats]

I would definitely consider a bug and get them both treated. That link is a good read.

 

[rattyratgirl]

If it was lice or mites wouldn't Ruby have them too?

 

[lilspaz68]

Yes but they aren't always apparent right away. They usually go after the compromised rats first. You would need to dose both.

 

[rattyratgirl]

I'm pretty sure they have mites.can i get them? I'm honestly afraid of holding them because I don't want to get them.

 

[lilspaz68]

Did you read my article??

The most common ectoparasites are lice and mites. Both of these buggies will only feed off your rats, not you or your other animals.

 

[rattyratgirl]

Yes, but I'm feeling itchy.... Am I just being paranoid?

 

[victoria]

Yes, but I'm feeling itchy.... Am I just being paranoid?

Have you not treated your rats yet? You've known for about 2 weeks they have parasites... maybe that should be your concern.

 

[Angel22]

Thanks so much for posting the write up. I just read it as I had no idea about the parasites that rats could get. Nice to know what to look for if I see over the top signs of scratching

 

[*Rebel_Angel*]

Hope Star feel's better soon!