How much food does a rat need per day? - briefly
An adult rat typically consumes 15–20 g of commercial dry feed daily, roughly 5–10 % of its body weight, supplemented with fresh water. Juvenile rats require slightly less, around 10–15 g per day, adjusted for growth stage.
How much food does a rat need per day? - in detail
Rats require a diet that supplies approximately 50–70 kcal per kilogram of body weight each day. An adult laboratory or pet rat weighing 300 g therefore needs about 15–21 kcal daily. Commercial rodent pellets provide roughly 3.5 kcal per gram, so a 300‑g rat should receive 4.5–6 g of pellets each day.
Key components of a balanced ration include:
- Protein: 14–16 % of the diet, delivering 2–3 g per day for a 300‑g animal.
- Fat: 4–6 % of the diet, supplying 0.5–0.8 g per day.
- Fiber: 3–5 % of the diet, aiding gastrointestinal health.
- Vitamins and minerals: Provided by fortified pellets; supplemental sources are rarely needed for healthy adults.
Water intake correlates with food consumption. A rat of this size typically drinks 15–30 ml of fresh water per day. Access to clean water must be continuous.
Factors that modify intake:
- Age: Juvenile rats grow rapidly and may require 30 % more calories than adults.
- Reproductive status: Pregnant or lactating females increase intake by 20–30 % to support offspring.
- Activity level: Rats housed with enrichment (running wheels, tunnels) expend more energy and may need an additional 2–3 g of pellets.
- Health condition: Illness or stress can reduce appetite; veterinary guidance is essential.
Feeding schedule: Provide the measured portion once daily or split into two equal feeds 12 hours apart. Monitor body weight weekly; a stable weight indicates adequate nutrition.
If fresh foods (fruits, vegetables) are offered, they should not exceed 10 % of total intake by weight to avoid digestive upset. Example: 0.5 g of carrot or apple per day complements the pellet base.
Overall, a 300‑g rat’s daily food plan consists of 5–6 g of high‑quality pellets, 15–30 ml of water, and optional small amounts of fresh produce, adjusted for age, reproductive status, and activity. Regular weight checks ensure the regimen meets the animal’s metabolic demands.