Neutering a pet male rat is major surgery and it is not something that should be jumped into without thought. If opting to have a male rat neutered, here is everything you should know and what to expect with the procedure.
How old should a male rat be before being neutered?
According to Debbie Ducommun, the rat expert, male rats can be as young as four weeks for surgery. The Rat & Mouse Gazette says eight to ten weeks is the safest age. Some vets won’t do the surgery unless the rat is at least three months old. Which is correct? The Rat & Mouse Gazette claims that rats are prone to abscesses after surgery. Dr. Daryl Mabley, D.V.M believes they are caused by fat build-up. The older the rat, the more fat build-up and the more likely an abscess will develop. The best things to do are find a vet that has done many, many rat neuter surgeries and follow their rules.
What is normal after surgery?
Expect swelling for a week. Use an ice cube wrapped in a towel and gently press it against the swollen area to help reduce the swelling. It is normal for the male rat not to eat for a day. Odd shaped stools or soft stools for several days are also normal after neuter surgery. If he’s acting a little down in the dumps, that’s normal too. Wouldn’t you feel the same?
What is not normal after surgery?
Extreme lethargy is a sign of a sick rat. There is usually a suture or two that should be looked at a few times a day. If there is any discharge or the wound is opening, call the vet. Absorbable sutures do not need to be removed by the vet, but keep an eye on them to make sure they are absorbing without problem.
Does the rat need antibiotics or painkillers after he has been neutered?
Antibiotics are not necessary after surgery unless the rat was ill or there were complications. A healthy rat will not need them. Pain medications are usually prescribed to ease discomfort and shorten recovery time.
How long will recovery take?
Surprisingly, rats can recover from surgery faster than a human. If all goes well, your little boy can be fully recovered in as little as five to seven days.
What does it cost to get a male rat neutered?
The cost of neutering a rat varies by vet. A vet that has done many surgeries is more likely to charge less than one that hasn’t. You would prefer an experienced vet anyway, so it’s a win both ways. The price can range from $50 to $200 so it is best to call around to every vet in the area. Keep in mind, that not all vets take pocket pets.
Can the male go with the girls after full recovery from surgery?
No! A really big no. In male rats, sperm is saved in ducts found in the vas deferens. It is not removed during surgery so the sperm is still there. Despite having been through major surgery, that little boy will still mate with any girl he comes near, and she will get pregnant. It usually takes two weeks for the sperm to die, but vets recommend waiting three weeks before putting girl and boy together.
