Becka,

Hi! I am sorry to hear about the problems that you are having with your
rats. I don't have any experience with rats, per se, but certain health issues
are pretty universal to all beings.

In my research on the web, I am struck by the fact that mycoplasma is
communicable to humans, so take precautions when treating your sick rats. It
can
apparently be transferred from their mucus OR their feces as well, and the
virus becomes airborne as the feces dries out, so take precautions when
handling
their litter.

For treatment, the things that are suggested are garlic, DHEA, and colloidal
silver. I have no personal experience or knowledge of these matters, but
their articles and testimonials seem sound. Colloidal silver is a good mineral
to have, though it can, in excess, over a period of time, reportedly cause
the same effects as an anti-biotic in that it can wipe out the good bacteria
as well as the bad. In my opinion (and there is a lot of controversy about
CS), it would be okay to use as needed, and to supplement with it in trace
amounts. It's always good to give supplements a little break from time to
time,
and I practice that with my own animals.

I would think that astragalus and goldenseal would be good herbs to add to
their diets on a pretty regular basis, especially at the onset of symptoms.

Bovine colostrum is good to repair the lower intestinal tract in most all
animals. This is how it is linked with raising the immune system. If animals
and people are absorbing their nutrients more effectively, their immune
system in turn will of course work more effectively.

If you are looking for a good, overall immune enhancer, I would really
consider the yeast free Nupro that Purely Pets has on the website. It says
it's
for cats and dogs, but people have used it for other animals as well,
including raising crickets (grown for pet and bait stores). It's pretty
amazing
stuff. That's why I make sure I don't spill any on the countertops in my
kitchen. I fear I'll breed some sort of super ants that will take over my
house. :)

Good luck in your search for the answer to your problem. I wish I could be
of more help.

Cat Donnelly
_Holistic Arkansas Rescued Pugs (HARP)_
(http://www.k9contacts.com/heartlandpug/)




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