Figure 1: Ringtail in adult rat
Case history and photos

Clinical Signs

The rat shown below is a 1½-year-old female that presented with a dark circular ring around the distal portion of the tail. She was part of a colony of approx 60. Interestingly only this rat presented with this condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosed with ringtail.

Treatment

A dehumidifier that was already present in the room with the colony had been kept in the range of 50-60%. When the classic sign of ringtail was observed, it was raised up to to 60-70 % humidity. Olive oil was then applied to the tail twice daily for several weeks.

Outcome

The outcome following treatment was resolution of the ringtail.

Photos

Photos courtesy of Bellaratta’s Nest Rattery

Posted on July 2, 2003, 11:57, Last updated on April 8, 2010, 15:02 | Figures