How do you care for hairless rats? - briefly
Provide a temperature‑controlled, low‑humidity enclosure (20‑24 °C, 40‑60 % RH) and a diet high in protein, fresh vegetables, occasional fruit, plus calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Clean the cage weekly, watch the skin for dryness or lesions, and handle gently with clean hands to prevent infection.
How do you care for hairless rats? - in detail
Hairless rats require a stable environment that mimics their natural conditions while protecting their sensitive skin. A cage of solid-bottom design, at least 30 × 20 × 20 cm for a pair, prevents foot injuries and provides space for movement. Use soft, dust‑free bedding such as paper pulp or aspen shavings; avoid cedar, pine, or any scented material that can irritate the skin. Maintain ambient temperature between 22 °C and 26 °C (71 °F–79 °F) and relative humidity around 50 %–60 %; low humidity accelerates skin drying, while excessive heat can cause overheating.
Nutrition must be balanced and moisture‑rich. Offer a high‑quality rodent pellet formulated for laboratory strains, supplemented with fresh vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrot, kale) and occasional fruit. Provide clean water in a sipper bottle, refilled daily, and consider a shallow water dish for additional hydration during hot periods. Because hairless rats lose heat more quickly, a small, thermostatically controlled heating pad placed under part of the cage can be used, but never cover the entire floor to avoid burns.
Skin care is critical. Apply a veterinary‑approved moisturizer or emollient twice daily to prevent cracking; use only products free of fragrances and alcohol. Inspect the skin each morning for redness, abrasions, or parasites. If lesions appear, isolate the affected animal and consult a veterinarian experienced with exotic rodents. Routine health checks should include weighing the rats weekly, observing grooming behavior, and monitoring respiratory sounds for signs of infection.
Handling should be gentle and brief to reduce stress. Support the body with both hands, avoid gripping the tail, and limit sessions to a few minutes until the animal becomes accustomed. Enrichment items such as chew blocks, tunnels, and climbing platforms encourage natural behaviors and prevent boredom. Rotate toys weekly to maintain interest.
Vaccination is not standard for pet hairless rats, but a regular veterinary examination every six months is recommended. Keep a record of all observations, dietary changes, and medical interventions to track health trends over time.