We have two rats, brothers from the same litter. One is a typical hooded rat and the other is a dumbo. They are just over three years old and have recently been experiencing hair loss and chronic itching. There are no pustules, bumps or swelling; the skin is only slightly irritated due to their scratching. We use shredded paper for their bedding. The hair loss is rather sporadic: under their throats, up their front legs, along their backs. We're not sure if the hair loss is because of their scratching or if there is an underlying factor. We have recently moved into a smoking household and are concerned whether or not the residual smoke could be the cause, or if it could just be an 'aging' factor. We know rates typically live three to five years and our boys are definitely older, but they have no loss of appetite, curiosity or movement, just hair. Any suggestions as to washes or supplements we can provide for them, if only to assist in their dry skin would be appreciated.
