Respiratory & Ammonia Risk Calculator

Rats have sensitive airways and most carry Mycoplasma — their environment often decides whether it flares. This tool scores ammonia buildup from urine, bedding and ventilation, then adds visible symptoms for a Low / Moderate / HIGH action band.

Educational reference only — this is not a veterinary diagnosis. When symptoms are present or worsening, consult an exotic veterinarian promptly.

Cage & Environment

Cage size input

Width (cm)

Depth (cm)

Height (cm)

Ventilation

Bedding type

Urine-spot cleaning interval (days)

Number of rats

Room temperature (°C)

Humidity (%)

Scented spray, candles or air freshener near cage?

Symptoms present now

Sneezing / frequent sniffing (+10) Red porphyrin tears or nose staining (+15) Rattling / clicking chest sounds (+25) Open-mouth breathing / gasping (+40)

Your Risk Score

Total respiratory / ammonia risk

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Band

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Score = (rats × 20 × days between spot cleans ÷ ventilation coefficient ÷ bedding absorption coefficient × airspace dilution) + symptoms + temperature/humidity/scented-product stress. Bands: Low <55 · Moderate 55–110 · HIGH >110.

Advice Panel

Spot-clean urine spots daily — ammonia is generated from urine-soaked bedding, and concentration rises fast between cleans.
Full bedding change every 5–7 days (sooner for large groups or humid rooms).
Switch cedar or pine → paper/cellulose or aspen. Aromatic softwood phenols and dust irritate rat airways.
No scented products near the cage: candles, sprays, plug-ins and essential oils are respiratory irritants.
Increase ventilation without drafts — a sealed glass tank traps ammonia; a wire cage with gentle air movement is ideal.
Keep the room 18–26 °C and 40–60% relative humidity; heat, cold and damp air all stress the respiratory tract.

Note: Red porphyrin discharge is NOT blood — but it signals stress or illness; note it in a health log and watch for accompanying symptoms.

Educational reference only — this is not a veterinary diagnosis. When symptoms are present or worsening, consult an exotic veterinarian promptly.