ABSCESSES

The lump will have a smelly cottage-cheese like pus in it, and if not drained prompty can create a deadly ulcerated dermatitis and enter the bloodstream, poisoning the whole system, which in turn will lead to fatality. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ATTEMPT TO SQUEEZE THE LUMP YOURSELF. It will make the pus go further into the body, spreading the infection into the bloodstream.


Any lump or bump found on your pet should always be investigated by a vet -- prompt treatment may save its life. Remember, with any lump, time is of the essence.


Once the abscess is established, the surrounding skin is unable to heal itsself and will not gow back together until the pus is removed from the centre. A small abscess can be lanced, drained and flushed with antiseptic and saline solution. If the abscess is small enough, anaesthetic may not be necessary. Some antibiotics will be given as a precautionary measure, alongside Dermisol cream. This is to prevent any further infection and to aid healing.


A large, deep-rooted abscess can be difficult to treat. It will almost definitely need to be done under anaesthetic. The vet will lance it, then drain the pus. If it is deep, there is a possibility that there may be rotting tissue, which will need to be cut away. Again, the wound will then be flushed with saline and antiseptic. If the rotting flesh and pus is successfully removed, the vet may stitch the wound up -- this depends on the location of the abscess.


In some cases it is impossible to remove all the infection, and the wound will be left open and need to be flushed with saline solution several times a day. This can be a long hard haul -- sometimes the wound will fill with pus again, and it can be a losing battle to get on top of it. In many cases, the final outcome is blood poisoning, and euthanasia is the kindest option.


The culprit is a bacterium called straphyloccus aureus. There are others, but "straph" is the most common. It is actually found on the skin and nose cavities of humans, and is the same thing responsible for boils in humans. So, next time you handle your ratty, think of the consequences of not washing your hands. Next time it could be fatal for your beloved pet.


Good cage hygiene is essential in fighting bacteria. Basic, everyday cleaning can keep it down to a minimum. Changing soiled bedding everyday can help keep it at bay. Remove dirty litter and spilled food -- they are both grounds on which bacteria thrive. Thoroughly disinfecting the cage once or twice a week is also essential.


Finally, make sure you ratproof your home, and make sure the rat has no access to sharp objects, outside the cage or in.