08/08/2026
❤️ Lets Talk Sneezing ❤️
A fairly common worry we often see owners, particularly newer ones, mention is sneezing. Just like alot of other animal species, pet and wild animals alike, rats can sneeze! And it's a perfectly normal way to remove an annoying bit of dust or debris, such as a bit of food or substrate, from their nose 🙈
But how much sneezing is too much sneezing?
If your rat sneezes occasionally, it's probably nothing to worry about - us humans need to sneeze occasionally too! New rats to the home can also be a little sneezier as they adapt to the new environment that may have different humidity, temperature, substrate etc. But if your rat/s is sneezing alot, what should you do?
➡️ Are you due a substrate change? If you're nearly due a change, it may be worth getting that done to see if that helps.
➡️ Are you using a suitable substrate? Avoid Carefresh, fleece liners/bath mats, shredded paper or using litter as substrate. But even if you are using a suitable substrate, some options suit individual rats better than others. If you've got any particularly sensitive rats, try a cardboard substrate, such as Green Mile and always ensure there is at least several inches of it for appropriate ammonia/smell control.
➡️ Have you got any environmental irritantants? Make sure there are no air fresheners/candles/reed diffusers/sprays anywhere near the rat's airspace.
➡️ Has the temperature and/or humidity suddenly changed, such as due to the weather conditions or putting the heating on? If so, the sneezing may subside in a few days once they adapt.
➡️ If you've run through all of these possibilities and you still have a rat who is sneezing excessively, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms, such as excess porphyrin or snuffly/congested noises, make an appointment with a rat savvy vet to have them assessed.
(Note: If sneezing is accompanied by more concerning symptoms such as persistent hooting, side sucking, weight loss or lethargy, always get prompt veterinary treatment as these are common signs of respiratory infections)
What should I expect at the vets?
The vet should do full examination/health check, especially listening to their lungs/airways. If their chest sounds clear and there is no obvious sign of illness, the vet may discuss some potential treatment options to trial, such as some form of decongestant or antihistamine.
https://ratguide.com/health/upper_respiratory/noninfectious/allergic_rhinosinusitis_allergic_rhinoconjunctivitis.php
However it is important to realise that some rats can just be a little more sensitive than others and therefore remain a little sneezy, without any other symptoms, for the duration of their life. If you have rats from a pet shop/backyard breeder/rescue background you may find they are slightly more prone due to their genetics and the conditions they were raised/kept in. But as long as the sneezing isn't accompanied by other symptoms, it doesn't normally affect them in any way 🫶
Phoebe x
