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Ratties Jerking Head Around?

silverstream007

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You know how when rats are content or happy, they grind their teeth and their eyes bug out a bit? Recently, when my pet rat has been doing this, she also jerks her head back. I also noticed that she seems to have slight breathing problems. I figured it was just because she's very old- 2.5 years. Is this jerking motion a sign that she's gasping for air?
 

Ly&Pigs

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If a rat is gasping for air, it's very visible and noticeable. Jerking her head back doesn't necessarily mean she's gasping for air. If she's having breathing problems, she could be sick and needs to see a vet. Respiratory infections are very common in rats and need to be treated.
 

silverstream007

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That's the problem. There are no vets. The closest one who treats rats would be about 6 hours away. I've done some extensive looking :/
 

MaggieMae

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Around where do you live?

Most of the time people on here can find someone... It is worth a shot to ask..
 

silverstream007

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South Carolina
 

NikkiPPanther

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I could not find any. The only one is in North Carolina.
 

Sirene

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silverstream007

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Thank you! A couple of those are nearby.
 
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