How do you bathe a white rat? - briefly
Use lukewarm water and a small amount of mild, unscented pet shampoo to gently wet the «white rat», scrub the coat, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry with a soft towel. Avoid submerging the head and keep the environment warm to prevent hypothermia.
How do you bathe a white rat? - in detail
Bathing a white laboratory rat requires careful preparation, gentle handling, and thorough post‑care to avoid stress and injury.
Materials needed:
- Shallow, non‑slippery container (plastic or stainless steel)
- Warm water (approximately 37 °C)
- Mild, pet‑safe shampoo or a few drops of diluted baby shampoo
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Towels made of absorbent, lint‑free fabric
- Hair dryer on low heat or a warm, draft‑free area for drying
- Disposable gloves (optional)
Preparation:
- Choose a quiet room free of sudden noises; lower lighting reduces anxiety.
- Test water temperature with a thermometer; ensure it is comfortably warm, never hot.
- Fill the container with enough water to cover the animal’s paws, not its entire body, to limit immersion time.
- Place towels nearby for immediate drying.
Procedure:
- Gently place the rat into the shallow water, allowing it to stand on the bottom.
- Using a soft cloth, apply a small amount of shampoo to the fur, avoiding the face, ears, and eyes.
- Massage the coat lightly, focusing on dirty or soiled areas; limit the session to 2–3 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with a cup of warm water poured slowly over the body, ensuring no soap residue remains.
- Remove the rat promptly and place it on a dry towel; pat the fur gently to remove excess moisture.
Post‑bath care:
- Transfer the animal to a second dry towel; roll gently to absorb remaining water.
- If needed, use a hair dryer on the lowest setting, keeping it at least 30 cm from the skin to prevent overheating.
- Observe the rat for signs of distress, respiratory issues, or skin irritation during the next few hours.
- Return the animal to its regular cage only after it is completely dry and warm.
Consistent hygiene, performed only when necessary, supports skin health and reduces the risk of parasitic infestations.