Skin Disorders
Abscesses
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22/06/2009 - 20:31
The Science
An abscess is a localised pus-filled cavity surrounded by inflamed tissue.
It is usually caused by a puncture wound from bites or some similar trauma and already existing infections. The surface of the wound heals over, trapping the bacteria inside. The body's own defence mechanism kicks in (the white blood cells) to fight the invading infection, killing the cells and forming what...
Alopecia
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22/06/2009 - 20:33
The Science
Alopecia is the loss or absence of hair, concentrating in one area or widespread. There are many different causes of alopecia:
Barbering
Bite Wounds
Dermatitis
Dermatophytosis
Ectoparasites
Pasteurella pneumotropica
Staphylococcus aureus
Barbering
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22/06/2009 - 20:32
The Science
Barbering is the partial loss of hair (alopecia) due to over-grooming by cagemates or even the rat itself (self-barbering). It is thought to be brought about from boredom, dominating, stress, or lack of suitable chewing materials.
Symptoms
Most typically, this kind of alopecia is usually found around the muzzle, head, and abdomen. There should be no signs of inflammation or scabs,...
Bumblefoot
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22/06/2009 - 20:35
The Science
Bumble foot (Ulcerative Pododermatitis) is a bacterial infection most commonly caused by caused by Staphylococcus Aureus. Lesions occur on the pads and soles of the feet and consist of granulomatous cellulitis or chronic, fibrous granulomas with or without an crusty discharge, of the feet.
Wire floored cages are normally one of the major causes of Bumblefoot. When a rat walks on...