Treatment for Rat Mites

Mites are one of the most common external parasites contracted by rats. The three types of mites that infect rats are fur mites, burrowing mites and bloodsucking mites. Bloodsucking mites are the most dangerous and can infect humans.

  1. Mite Life Cycle

    • Mites hatch from an egg into a six-legged nymph, which molts into an eight-legged nymph that finally becomes the eight-legged adult. The eggs can't be killed, so mites must be killed during the nymph or adult stage.

    Oral Treatment

    • Ivermectin is an oral medication that effectively kills mites that are on the rat. Visit your vet for the proper treatment schedule and dosage.

    Topical Treatments

    • Shampoos, dips, foams and sprays with pyrethrin at no more that .15 percent can be safe and effective. However, not all topical treatments are safe for rodents, so check with your vet before putting anything on your pet.

    Cage Cleaning

    • Mites can complete their life cycle in as little as a week, so clean your rat̵7;s cage at least weekly. Disinfect the cage and its contents with diluted bleach. Throw out anything made from wood, because the mite eggs can hide in it.

    Cautions

    • Do not use dog and cat treatments or bird mite guards for your rat. These can be potentially harmful to your pet.