2006-06-28 05:18:11 · 8 answers · asked by day by day 6 in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
Sounds like you're allergic to his fur. Immediately after playing with him, wash your hands and arms, rinsing thoroughly with plain water. Rats don't live that long, so when he's gone, find another pet type that won't make you itch.
2006-06-28 05:21:09 · answer #1 · answered by PuterPrsn 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would say that you are allergic, but don't dismiss the mite thing. I don't know much about rats, so I am not sure if there is anything you could bathe him with or even if he'd let you. But it's probably a good start. After holding him, you might try taking some benedryl, and if that helps you feel better, then it's an allergy. But, I would think that your skin would be red where it's irritated. Be sure to wash up real well after handling him, and hopefully that helps
2006-06-28 12:34:07 · answer #2 · answered by buggsnme2 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is very likely that you are allergic to these animals. Each and every person has different reactions to different animals (I'm allergic to everything, almost...but I take meds b/c I can't live without my ratty females :D) ...so, medications might help, and (like someone else mentioned) washing your hands after playing with them. There are also "Bald" varieties of rats that have no hair, which may be a better choice in the future :D
If you suspect mites, check the fur and if you see white dandruffy flakes, or black specks..then there may be a mite issue. The vet can resolve this with creams and medications :D
2006-06-28 13:19:15 · answer #3 · answered by DarkOneSaysJump 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are probably allergic to him. It's actually a very common problem with rats. Wash well and I suggest trying an over the counter allergy medicine like claritin. If that doesn't work, try an allergist. Also to answer a below poster, hairless rats will be just the same for allergies because it is the dander and not the fur that causes allergies.
2006-06-28 12:20:33 · answer #4 · answered by bobbysgirl703 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
maybe your allergic to him i have 2 rats and i used to get itchy after holding them because i was allergic to their bedding
2006-06-28 12:23:15 · answer #5 · answered by pixiequeenjellybean 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i have two rats and my bf has the same problem when he holds them, he has found washing your hand immediately after holding and playing with them, it helps a lot.
2006-06-28 12:24:42 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
you're allergic to rat dander
2006-06-28 12:20:37 · answer #7 · answered by THOMAS F 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
your allergic
2006-06-28 12:50:10 · answer #8 · answered by rideglorypride 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋