[MOA]

My boy friend recently got a new rat and I'm a but concerned about his markings, is he a high risk? What should I watch for?

He was a pet store rat so I don't know age or any background.

His name is malcom and he's such a sweetie with his eyebrow looking markings.

 

[Blackthorn]

Yes, he is a cap-stripe which is always high white/sox(10)dom and thus at risk for megacolon. Most rats who survive past 5-6 weeks do not develop megacolon, but there is late-onset mc that can happen anytime. You and your boyfriend should read up on megacolon and what to watch for, and just keep an eye on him for bloating, irregular poops, etc. Chances are he'll be fine at this point, but NEVER breed him.

http://ratguide.com/health/digestive/megacolon.php

 

[MOA]

Thank you so much for the information, and no I'd never breed! That's why I only have boys!