What should I do if my rat is breathing heavily and heaving?

Answer by  sanityrose (2664)

The first step to take when you rat is breathing irregularly is to clean their cage. High levels of urine in their cage, and new bedding, can cause respiratory problems.

Answer by  mammakat (11147)

If your rat isn't pregnant and about to deliver, then you need a vet. This could be an upper respiratory ailment and can lead to pneumonia, or it could be a reaction to bedding, food, etc. Breathing heavily is not good, heaving means DISTRESS. Your pet needs help. Change him into a cage with newspaper, get him to treatment.