May 24, 2006

Rufus update

Rufus does indeed have a broken arm (well, leg...ok, humerus, to be technical.) It's a clean but full break up near the joint, and to really set it "correctly" would require surgery and pins. I do not want to put any of us through that (Rufus, the vet, or Victor and me), and actually the vet didn't think it was a particularly good idea. Setting it with a splint is the best bet for a non-invasive good outcome, although he may still have a limp later.

rufuscast2-24may06.jpg

rufuscast-24may06.jpg

Although it looks like he's trying to crawl out of the cage here, he's really been very still. The vet gave him a little extra sedative to help keep him quiet tonight, in hopes that he doesn't decide to pull the cast off himself.

I'm a little worried about how he's going to eat. I gave him yogurt and applesauce, which he licked at just a bit, and puffed Kashi, which is small enough that he doesn't need to hold it. I know from our past experience that rats are remarkably adaptable, but I am also a remarkable worrywart.

Posted by Abita at May 24, 2006 07:24 PM
Comments

Been down the broken leg route and it happens very easily with rats so don't feel bad. We always put the little one in a small carry cage we have to keep them pretty still until the leg heels up enough. Rats heal fairly quickly I've found.

Poor little Rufus and his cast. I've never had one casted you will have to let me know if he leaves it on.

Your rats sound like ours. They pick their roommates (Or none if they are so inclined) and we just have to go along. They were obviously hummoring you on Sunday night. They probably figured one time of being good and you would not put them through intros again. ;)

Posted by: Poi Mom Jane at May 24, 2006 07:57 PM

OH NO!!! Poor little Rufus.... Wow that cast he has on is very bright... Hope he heals quickly...

Get well soon Little fellow..

Posted by: colleen at May 24, 2006 09:33 PM

Poor little baby. Did it happen during the 'fight'?
How long will he have to wear it. When my ratty had his collar, I had to hand feed him too. If you blenderised his food, would he lick it?

Posted by: Eanna at May 25, 2006 02:15 AM

Oh, poor little chap! Heart really going out to him!

Posted by: Shamisen at May 25, 2006 08:47 AM

I didn't ask how long he'd need to wear it! I'm not sure what I was thinking...except how pathetic he looked. He does go back for a recheck next Wednesday, though.

When Leather broke her leg last year the vet didn't bother with a splint, but I'm not sure if it was because she'd have chewed it right off or because at her age and limited mobility, he figured it didn't matter as much if it healed "wrong."

Rufus is being a good boy so far, no chewing. (Actually I'm not she he'd be able to chew off the critical part near his shoulder). He's eating yogurt, applesauce, and cereal, and I'll pick up baby food for him tonight. He did plenty of pooping, so I know he's eating. :-)

Posted by: abita at May 25, 2006 09:01 AM