Zee Megacolon and Full Write-Up

Zee arrived with his cage mate, Edgar, on the 17th of February 2019. They were approximately 8-12 months old. Both rats were displaying signs of pruritus, we suspected this was due to parasites, we treated them with topical Ivermectin.
We also noted that Zee had a few scratch marks, but they resembled minor wounds from his cage mate rather than scratch marks from excessive itching. After Edgar was castrated, the pair got on harmoniously.

Warning: Graphic Content

Emergency Castration:

During a bonding process between Zee and some other rats, one rat in particular - Chucky - caused significant injury to Zee's scrotum and exposed a testicle.

The best way to resolve the issue was an urgent castration which went ahead immediately. Although, Zee had the last laugh; Chucky was castrated too because he was particularly aggressive ever since his arrival.

They got on brilliantly afterwards though!

Zee was by far one of the most amazing 'nurse-rats' we've ever had. He was very empathetic and attentive to any rat who was unwell or at a disadvantage. Rats are known for their empathy, and it has been demonstrated several times during scientific studies, and Zee was most definitely one of those rats.

Acquired Megacolon:

Megacolon is a condition that describes abnormal dilation of the colon not caused by mechanical obstruction. Acquired megacolon is any pathology that obstructs the intestinal contents, resulting in distension of the colon. 

Neurological disease, mechanical obstruction, injury, abscesses, neoplasia, and inflammatory diseases can all result in acquired megacolon.

In dogs and particularly in cats, commonly, faecal retention will cause colon distention and reduction in colonic motility.

Distension refers to enlargement, dilation, or a 'ballooning-effect', and motility in biology refers to an ability to move without help.

Zee developed a palpable mass. Obviously, without advanced imaging, we couldn't be certain, but we suspected a liver tumour or intestinal mass; such as a coprolith, or neoplasm. Subsequently, Zee's bowel movements were being disrupted, and his abdomen became extremely enlarged.

Mortality rates surrounding megacolon are often very high in rats. Management or even treatment of megacolon is intensive and invasive; typically including laxatives, enemas, and an amended diet known as 'Woody's Megacolon diet'.

In our opinion, given that a sizable internal mass - that was almost certainly inoperable - was causing such significant symptoms, it was kindest to opt for humane euthanasia.

An explorative laparotomy may have shined more light on Zee's condition, but it most likely wouldn't have altered the outcome.

Zee passed away peacefully on the 22nd of December 2019.