Streptococcus Pneumoniae This is a bacterial disease which can exist in either a carrier or a clinical state. In a carrier state, there are rarely any symptoms at all. In the clinical state, the symptoms usually mimic pneumonia. Sneezing, porphyrin discharge from nose and eyes, hunched posture, labored breathing. However, once these symptoms start, the rat must be treated aggressively with antibiotics immediately or death is a certainty. It's best to avoid all contact with your rats if you have strep.   Recommended treatment: A combination of Enrofloxacin (Baytril) and Doxycycline or Azithromycin (Zithromax) and Doxycycline.   Note: Baytril and Doxycycline are not recommended for rats under 4 months of age or for pregnant and nursing does.   Dosages: Adults: • Baytril - 5mg/kg to 10mg/kg twice per day • Zithromax - 8.8mg/kg to 17.6mg/kg twice per day • Doxycycline - 2.5mg/kg to 5mg/kg twice per day   Rats under 4 months of age: • Zithromax - 8.8mg/kg to 17.6mg/kg twice per day or • Tylosin (Tylan) - 10mg/kg twice per day (Do not treat in the drinking water)   Pregnant and nursing does: • Zithromax - 8.8mg/kg to 17.6mg/kg twice per day or • Tylosin (Tylan) - 10mg/kg twice per day (Do not treat in the drinking water) More Information on Medications and Dosages at: The Layman's Medication Guideline For Use In Rats To link to this page: http://www.raisinrats.com/medical/strep.html [back to top]