Rat mites, are nothing to worry about in small scale situations, like being found on a newly adopted rat.

First, isolate the rats from the others. At least for the first few days.

Here’s what information you should know that will help you understand rat mites:

• You can tell if your rat has mites by seeing white casings on the fur left behind by mites.

• Rat mites can lay eggs anywhere in the cage. Usually not on the rat itself.
• These specific rat mites, need the rat to feed, to lay eggs.
• The longest life cycle of a mite is 2 weeks long.
• They make a spray and medicine is accessible for treatment.

You can also tell if your rat has mites because in more extremely cases, there will be missing fur with scabbing associated.

Mites are not something to stress about.

I am not a professional by only means, but I have successfully treated mites by doing the following:

How to Treat Mites

First, I use Ivermectin. It’s technically a horse dewormer. But when dosed correctly can be safe for rats. You can purchase Ivermectin online, the concentration to look for is: 1.87%

Using a 1mL syringe, use will dose out .01-.02mL to be given every other week for up to six weeks (or three rounds of treatment).

The dose really depends on the size and severity of the rat’s mites.

Some will give .01mL doses weekly for more extreme cases.

During this time of treatment, you will want to use a diluted bleach and water solution (1:10) to clean their cage and belongings.

Their toys, you can freeze and switch out every two days. The cold kills the mites.

You can do the same with their bedding too, but I’ve found just washing it separately in a washing machine and dryer works as well. Wash on hot and dry on high heat.

Keeping a two day routine, like mentioned above, for toys, bedding, other bedding and nesting materials.

I also use this spray: PREMO Mite Killer (found on Amazon with this link) in between cleaning.

I think this spray is essential. It also makes you feel more in control of the situation. I make sure to mist all corners and edges of the cage.

With the combination of sanitation, prevention of the egg cycle happening, and oral treatment, you can see mites clear up as early as two weeks. Though, if you feel it necessary, you can continue treatment for up to 6 weeks. Here is an example of a mites treatment schedule: