Expert: Janell McMorran - 7/2/2009

Question
My rat Harvey hurt his foot.  I don't know how or when.  It had to have happened while I was at work.  He is in a Critter Nation Cage.  It has trays on each level, but the ramps are wire.  He is with 5 other male rats.  He is getting up there in age. He is almost 3.  It is his right foot.  He does move the leg, but he drags the foot.   He does lift the leg up to scratch but stops.  His toes curl downward.  He can't seem to straighten the foot to step on it.  I have picked him up and he does not seem to be in pain.  I recently had him weighed at the vet due to a new rat having lice.  So the entire crew is on Ivermecten.  He weighs 570g.  I just spent over 500 dollars at the vet so I am hoping not to have to take him.  What can I do and how soon should I take him if there is no improvement.

Answer
He may have sprained or broken it, in which case a vet can't do much anyway and the only way to help him is with time. If he seems to be in pain, then I would consider taking him to the vet; and if it begins to affect both of his back legs and his bodily functions then I would take him in as well. Otherwise, just try to keep his food and water within easy reach to encourage him to rest that leg and keep an eye on him.