How do you keep a rat? - briefly
Provide a roomy cage with appropriate bedding, a balanced diet, fresh water, and routine cleaning; include chew toys, tunnels, and regular handling for mental stimulation. Monitor health signs weekly and consult a veterinarian for any concerns.
How do you keep a rat? - in detail
Rats thrive when their environment meets basic physical and social requirements. Provide a spacious, well‑ventilated enclosure made of solid material; a minimum of 2 sq ft of floor space per animal is recommended. Use a deep layer of absorbent, dust‑free bedding such as paper pulp, and include a solid platform or hideaway for resting. Ensure the cage has secure locks to prevent escape.
- Size: at least 20 in × 12 in × 12 in per rat; larger for groups.
- Bedding: 2–3 in depth of paper‑based material; replace weekly.
- Accessories: hideouts, chew toys, climbing structures, and a water bottle with a stainless‑steel spout.
Nutrition must be balanced and varied. Offer a commercial rodent pellet as the staple, supplemented with fresh vegetables, occasional fruit, and a protein source such as cooked egg or lean meat. Provide unlimited access to clean water. Avoid sugary treats and high‑fat foods; monitor intake to prevent obesity.
Health maintenance includes regular veterinary examinations, preferably with a practitioner experienced in small mammals. Observe for signs of respiratory distress, nasal discharge, hair loss, or changes in activity. Schedule vaccinations where applicable and maintain a record of weight and grooming observations. Promptly isolate any sick individual to prevent transmission.
Rats are highly social; housing them in same‑sex pairs or small groups reduces stress and promotes natural behaviors. Interaction with their owners should be daily, using gentle handling to build trust. Enrichment items—tunnels, puzzle feeders, and rotating toys—prevent boredom and encourage mental stimulation.
Cleaning protocol: spot‑clean soiled bedding daily; perform a full cage sanitation weekly. Disassemble accessories, wash with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry before reassembly. Replace all bedding after each deep clean. Monitor humidity and temperature; maintain ambient conditions between 65–75 °F (18–24 °C) with a relative humidity of 40–60 %.
By adhering to these guidelines, a rat can enjoy a healthy, active life as a companion animal.