How and what to feed a pet rat? - briefly
Offer high‑quality rat pellets as the staple, supplementing them daily with fresh, low‑sugar vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli, peas) and occasional protein sources such as cooked egg, boiled chicken, or mealworms; exclude sugary snacks, raw potatoes, and dairy. Provide clean water each day and discard uneaten food to keep the enclosure hygienic.
How and what to feed a pet rat? - in detail
A balanced diet for a domesticated rat consists of three main components: a high‑quality commercial mix, fresh vegetables and fruits, and occasional protein sources. The commercial mix should form the foundation, providing 60–70 % of daily calories. Choose a product labeled for rats, containing at least 18 % protein, 4–5 % fat, and a blend of grains, seeds, and dried legumes. Avoid mixes formulated for mice, as they often lack the necessary calcium‑phosphorus ratio.
Fresh produce supplies essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Offer a variety of leafy greens (e.g., kale, romaine, spinach) and non‑starchy vegetables (e.g., carrots, bell peppers, broccoli). Limit fruit to small portions because of high sugar content; suitable options include apple slices (seed‑free), berries, and melon. Provide each item in bite‑size pieces, remove uneaten portions after two hours to prevent spoilage.
Protein can be added twice weekly in the form of cooked eggs, plain boiled chicken, or low‑fat cottage cheese. Insects such as mealworms are acceptable as treats but should not exceed 5 % of the diet. Commercial rat treats are permissible if they contain no added sugars or artificial colors and are used sparingly.
Water must be available at all times in a clean, stainless‑steel bottle with a sipper tube. Replace it daily and inspect the bottle for leaks or contamination.
Feeding schedule: supply the commercial mix in a measured amount each morning, supplement with fresh foods at the same time, and remove leftovers promptly. Adult rats typically consume 15–20 g of dry mix per day; juveniles require slightly more relative to body weight.
Items to exclude: citrus fruits, raw potatoes, chocolate, caffeine, nicotine, and any processed human snacks high in salt or sugar. These substances can cause gastrointestinal upset, renal stress, or toxicity.
Monitoring health: observe stool consistency, body condition, and activity level. Sudden changes in appetite or weight may indicate dietary imbalance or illness and warrant veterinary evaluation.