roommate health issue

[mousapelli]

does anybody else have rats? I'm definately getting a cold, and I don't want to give it to Mulciber, but I've forgotten if they can catch human colds.

Poor Mulcie thinks i'm ignoring him, but I don't want to get him sick...

Comments

[thistle-chaser.livejournal.com]

I don't have rats, but I'd be really surprised if one could catch your cold. Isn't it rare that illnesses cross species barriers? Isn't that why this Bird Flu thing is making news? (But I bet you could call a vet and they'd tell you for sure!)

[iibnf.livejournal.com]

Hi, McTabby sent me over here to answer this.

Yes, rats get colds. All mammals have a type of myco disease that's peculiar to them.

It's highly unusual that your rat will get yours - as humans and ratties have different types of myco, but don't let him lick your nose or mouth, just in case. No fluid exchanges. Don't kiss him, either.

I think it's better that you give him hugs and let him know you love him, and take that chance, because a rattie's life is short and it's more important to fill it with as much love as possible than worry too much about colds.

If he ever does get Myco, there are things you can do to make him more comfy as he goes through it - but you can surf the net and talk to your vet about that.

Basically, no licking, but don't worry :D And pats from me to him!

Re:

[mousapelli.livejournal.com]

thank very much for the info! I was worried because I know rats get respitory infections easily...I will refrain from licking the rat *g*

Mulciber makes the happy clicky noise back at you! and walks all over my keyboard as I'm typing, and steals a whole pretzel while I'm trying to snap him off a piece of a another one, and then knocks a bottle of water off my desk. He's a such a spoiled brat ^_^*

Re:

[iibnf.livejournal.com]

The best type of rat is a very spoiled rat :D

Mine is currently curled up in my bra, snoozing happily.

Here are my bubs:

http://homepages.ihug.com.au/~iibnf/prattle.htm

(I only have Winky left now)

Re:

[mousapelli.livejournal.com]

awww...so adorable!

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awww...so adorable!

<a href="http://www.sprunkers.com/images/roommate.jpg"this is the 'roommate'</a>

Re:

[iibnf.livejournal.com]

Handsome fellow! Love the little white head spot :D