How do you keep white rats? - briefly
Provide a spacious, well‑ventilated cage with solid flooring, paper or aspen bedding, and a balanced diet of commercial rodent pellets plus occasional fresh vegetables, while cleaning the enclosure weekly and regularly checking for signs of illness.
How do you keep white rats? - in detail
White rats require a stable environment, balanced nutrition, regular health monitoring, and appropriate enrichment.
A suitable cage should be solid‑bottom, ventilated, and large enough for the animal to move freely. Minimum dimensions are 18 in × 12 in × 12 in for a single rat, with an additional 2 in of floor space per extra rat. Use chew‑resistant materials such as metal or thick plastic; avoid wire flooring that can damage paws. Provide a secure lid to prevent escapes.
Bedding must be absorbent, dust‑free, and changed regularly. Paper‑based or aspen shavings are preferred; avoid pine or cedar, which contain oils harmful to the respiratory system. Replace the entire substrate weekly, and spot‑clean soiled areas daily.
Nutrition consists of a high‑quality laboratory rat pellet as the staple diet, supplemented with fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli) and occasional protein sources (e.g., boiled egg, mealworms). Provide clean water in a sipper bottle; refill and disinfect the bottle daily. Do not offer sugary treats or processed human foods.
Health care includes routine observation for signs of illness: nasal discharge, wheezing, hair loss, or changes in behavior. Schedule a veterinary check‑up at least once per year, and vaccinate against common pathogens if recommended by the veterinarian. Maintain a clean cage to reduce parasite risk.
Enrichment promotes mental and physical well‑being. Offer tunnels, climbing structures, and chew toys made of untreated wood or cardboard. Rotate items weekly to sustain interest. Handle the animals gently for several minutes each day to build trust and reduce stress.
Cleaning protocol: remove food and water, discard soiled bedding, wipe surfaces with a mild, unscented disinfectant, rinse thoroughly, and replace bedding before returning the rats. Perform a deep clean of the cage and accessories monthly.
By adhering to these guidelines—appropriate housing, proper diet, vigilant health checks, and regular enrichment—white rats can thrive in a domestic setting.