Can Rats get downs syndrome?
No, rats do not have Down’s Syndrome. However, it sounds like she either has a brain injury or a severe ear infection. Twirling one way constantly and tilting of the head are common symptoms of both of these conditions. An inner ear problem can be cured with antibiotics but if it is a brain problem there’s not much that can be done. I had a rat with a brain problem such as this and she ended up dying a few days after I got her, unfortunately. I’ve also had a rat who was born with a head tilt and she was ‘off-balance’ like you said and later on she kind of grew out of it. If the rat is still eating and drinking normally and can walk normally at least some of the time it wouldn’t be that horrible to leave her that way, if you really cannot see a vet. If it is interfering with all of her normal activities, however, she should either be seen by a vet or humanely euthanized. I hope it is something simple that can be cured! If you have any more questions about rats feel free to email me: inf
