Taking Care of Rats With Lice

Like humans, pet rats can get lice. These tiny, bloodsucking insects cause itching and painful sores if the animal scratches too much. An infestation can also lead to anemia in the rat. Rat lice won't infest humans, but they can infest any other rats in the cage or even spread to those in other cages, typically by hitching a ride on your clothing. Rats most commonly catch lice from wild rats.

Things You'll Need

  • Lice powder
  • Small brush
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Look for symptoms of lice. The symptoms are excessive scratching, visible lice (a louse is two millimetres long and visible to the naked eye), nits (lice eggs) and possibly weakness or lethargy in the rat.

    • 2

      Consult a vet who specializes in small rodents, or buy lice powder or spray from a pet store. If you buy powder from a pet store, make sure it is formulated for rats and not for other small animals such as rabbits.

    • 3

      Treat not only the symptomatic rat but also any others you own. Follow the instructions exactly. Normally you need to brush the powder in and then out with a soft brush. Repeat daily as directed.

    • 4

      Change all rat bedding as soon as possible.

    • 5

      Provide healthy treats and snacks for your rats such as pasta, bananas and baby food. Lice can weaken an animal, especially if the infestation was severe. Your rats need a bit of building up.

    • 6

      Watch for signs of the lice returning during the next few weeks.