Porphyrin
is red discharge that appears around the eyes and nose. People often mistake
it for blood. It's a harmless discharge, and not an illness, but a symptom of
stresses such as overcrowding, poor nutrition or underlying illnesses, the
most common being respiratory disease.
Rats
have haderian glands in their eyes which produce porphyrin secretions. If
there is staining on one eye only, it may indicate a blocked tear duct on that
side, or atrophy of the gland on the opposite side.
Wood
shavings dust can cause irritation to the eye, as well as abrasions of the
cornea. Discharge of the eyes is often seen with the use of wood shavings.
Allergies can also produce porphyrin staining around the eyes and nose.
Treatment
is to remove all stresses, treat the infection, remove the wood shavings and
observe the rat. If none of the above are apparent, seek veterinary advice. If
your rat does have porphyrin staining it may be a good idea to take it to the
vets for a check-up anyway.
