Mycoplasma pulmonis is a type of bacteria that can cause respiratory infections in rodents.
It is transmitted through direct contact, aerosol and in utero. Venereal transmission is also possible called murine mycoplasmosis. Clinical infection of the reproductive tract can lead to infertility, reabsorption and smaller sized litters.
The only rats that do not have mycoplasma pulmonis are rats born within select colonies, laboratory rats and rats that are born through cesarean section.
Mycoplasma pulmonis is a genus of bacteria that lack a cell wall around the cell membranes; therefore making them resistant to antibiotics that target cell wall synthesis.
Mycoplasma pulmonis can be triggered by any environmental change; such as seasonal changes, new bedding (even a new bag of the same bedding,) and new toys/hammocks in the cage.
Signs of an upper respiratory tract infection include:
- inner ear infection (this does not always manifest) - porphyrin staining around the eyes and nose - sneezing / snuffling - squinting
Signs of a lower respiratory tract disease (advanced upper respiratory tract infection)
include all the above symptoms and: - changes in behaviour (sweet rat suddenly nipping or avoiding you) - chattering - coughing - crinkly sounding chest - disinterest in food (weight loss) - gasping - honking - hunched posture - laboured breathing - rough coat
Factors that may contribute to the exacerbation of disease: * Rats that are stressed * Rats with secondary illnesses * Over-crowding in cages * Poor ventilation of the animal’s habitat that results in ammonia buildup from urine and feces * Use of bedding or litter that contains phenols