Your rat is wobbling, losing balance, and seems out of it—this isn’t normal. It’s scary, and you need answers fast. Rats are usually energetic and curious, so when they suddenly become weak or unsteady, something is definitely wrong. This guide will help you understand possible causes, symptoms, and what to do next.
1. Inner Ear Infection (Most Common Cause)
One of the most common reasons for balance issues in rats is an inner ear infection (otitis media or otitis interna). The inner ear plays a huge role in balance, so when it becomes infected, your rat may start tilting its head, walking in circles, or even falling over.
Signs of an Inner Ear Infection:
✔ Head tilt (mild to severe)
✔ Stumbling or falling over
✔ Walking in circles
✔ Lack of coordination
✔ Lethargy and loss of appetite
What Causes It?
Ear infections in rats are typically caused by bacteria, such as Mycoplasma pulmonis or Pasteurella multocida. These bacteria can travel from the respiratory system into the ear, leading to infection. Poor cage hygiene, drafts, or weakened immune systems can make infections more likely.
What to Do:
✔ Get to a vet ASAP. Ear infections need antibiotics like Baytril (enrofloxacin) or Doxycycline to clear up.
✔ Your vet may also prescribe Meloxicam (an anti-inflammatory) to help with swelling and discomfort.
✔ Do NOT wait too long. Untreated infections can spread to the brain, leading to permanent neurological damage.
💡 Pro Tip: If your rat has a severe head tilt, you can adjust their cage setup by adding ramps, hammocks, and low-entry food/water dishes to help them get around easier.
2. Stroke or Neurological Issues
Rats, like humans, can suffer from strokes, which happen when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or reduced. This can cause sudden balance loss, weakness, or even paralysis on one side of the body.
Signs of a Stroke:
✔ Sudden difficulty walking or standing
✔ One-sided weakness or paralysis
✔ Head tilting or leaning to one side
✔ Lethargy and confusion
✔ Difficulty eating or drinking
What Causes It?
Strokes in rats are usually caused by blood clots or bleeding in the brain. Older rats, overweight rats, or those with underlying health conditions (like high blood pressure) are more at risk.
What to Do:
✔ Monitor for improvement. Some rats recover partially or fully within a few days.
✔ Offer easy-to-eat food (soft fruits, mashed pellets, or baby food) if they struggle to eat.
✔ Keep them hydrated with a syringe if needed.
✔ A vet may recommend steroids or supportive care, but treatment options are limited.
💡 Pro Tip: If your rat starts to improve within a day or two, it was likely a mild stroke. If symptoms get worse, it could be a brain tumor or another neurological issue.
3. Poisoning or Toxin Exposure
If your rat suddenly starts stumbling, falling over, or acting lethargic, poisoning could be the cause. Rats are curious creatures and may nibble on things they shouldn’t.
Signs of Poisoning:
✔ Lethargy and weakness
✔ Drooling or difficulty swallowing
✔ Tremors or seizures
✔ Labored breathing
✔ Loss of coordination
Common Household Toxins for Rats:
❌ Cleaning products (bleach, disinfectants, air fresheners)
❌ Pesticides and rodenticides (rat poison)
❌ Certain foods (chocolate, onions, garlic, avocado, blue cheese)
❌ Heavy metals (zinc from some cage bars, lead from old paint)
What to Do:
✔ If you suspect poisoning, act fast! Take your rat to the vet immediately.
✔ If your rat recently ingested something harmful, the vet may induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal to absorb toxins.
✔ Hydration is key—your vet may provide fluids if your rat is severely dehydrated.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep all cleaning supplies, human food, and pest control products out of reach from your rats to prevent accidental poisoning.
4. Inner Ear Tumor
If an ear infection doesn’t improve with antibiotics, a tumor may be pressing on your rat’s brain or ear canal, causing progressive balance loss and head tilting.
Signs of an Ear Tumor:
✔ Persistent head tilt that doesn’t improve
✔ Gradual loss of balance over weeks/months
✔ Weight loss and lack of appetite
✔ Lethargy and general weakness
What to Do:
✔ A vet may suggest steroids to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
✔ Palliative care (keeping your rat comfortable) is often the best option, as surgery is rarely possible.
✔ If quality of life declines significantly, euthanasia may be the kindest choice.
💡 Pro Tip: If you notice a slow decline in balance over time, rather than sudden symptoms, a tumor is more likely than an infection.
5. Other Possible Causes
While ear infections, strokes, poisoning, and tumors are the most common reasons for balance issues in rats, there are a few other possibilities:
🔹 Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of vitamin B can lead to weakness and loss of coordination.
🔹 Dehydration: If a water bottle malfunctions, your rat may become weak and lethargic.
🔹 Old Age: Senior rats often experience muscle weakness and coordination problems.
When to See a Vet
🚨 Take your rat to the vet immediately if:
✔ They are falling over constantly and cannot stand.
✔ They are refusing to eat or drink.
✔ They are showing signs of pain (grinding teeth, hunched posture).
✔ They are having seizures or severe tremors.
Time is critical—the sooner you act, the better your rat’s chances of recovery. 🐀❤️
Have questions? Drop a comment below, and I’ll help however I can!