Not Just a Rat.

[yellowhorde]

I think our last remaining rat, Silky, is developing cataracts. I don't know if it's a medical condition or not, but she is two years old, which is kind of old for a rat.

Heidi freaked out when she noticed this morning and she and Cliff plan on taking her to see the rat-friendly vet that helped with Bota back in November 2006. It's so hard to find vets that will treat rats. *sigh*

Silky wasn't sick like Fidget was so I'm thinking the cataracts are forming because she's getting old. But if there's anything that can be done for her, Heidi will make sure it's done. She spent a lot of money on Bota, though some less sensitive people said she shouldn't have bothered because it was just a rat.

Just a rat?!

Whatever!

Our rats are just as much loved members of this family as any cat or dog. If they are suffering and there's something that we can do to help, then they are god-damned well going to get it. Heidi gave Fidget antibiotics for her illness, but they just helped ease her symptoms and were not a cure because there was nothing that anyone could do.

If there's anything that can be done for Silky, it WILL be done. Because she is NOT just a rat. She is FAMILY.

Comments

[umilingual.livejournal.com]

Very hearty agreement from me. *huggles for you and Silky and family*

[yellowhorde.livejournal.com]

We've kept several types of pets over the years - fish, cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs, but I have to say rats are preferable... for many reasons. I just wish they lived longer.

BTW, your icon is so cute!

[umilingual.livejournal.com]

I wish they lived longer too...

Thanks! I've been in a very Peanuts mood these last couple months for some reason.

[m-barnette.livejournal.com]

I used to keep rats as pets when I was a kid. They were a lot of fun and very intelligent. I've always liked rats.

[anodracs.livejournal.com]

Aww, poor l'il girl! What color/variety is she? The pet rat type forums were some of the first communities I watched when I joined LJ, and believe me, I have seen a lot of posts from owners who are amazed by how callous others can be when it comes to a creature who is "just a rat", and I find it astounding how some vets outright refuse to treat rats. Give Silky some extra TLC for me!
P.S., Just because I'm curious, what's her favorite treat?

[yellowhorde.livejournal.com]

It's sad they way people react when they find out you have a pet rat. It's an instant 'Eww' thing for some reason. *shrug* Their loss.

Silky is a agouti hooded rat. So was Fidget - I believe they came from the same litter, but I'm not 100% sure. She likes dried banana chips, but she also loves fresh banana and apples, though she's not especially fond of Granny Smiths. I think they may be too tart for her.

[umilingual.livejournal.com]

What color hood? And does she have spots on her belly?

Our last rat (Munchkin) loved those little yogurt drop, and peanut butter. :)