How should a Dumbo rat be bathed? - briefly
Use a shallow basin of lukewarm water, gently wet the Dumbo rat’s coat while shielding the ears and face, apply a few drops of mild, rodent‑safe shampoo, lather briefly, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Pat dry with a soft towel and keep the animal in a warm, draft‑free area until completely dry.
How should a Dumbo rat be bathed? - in detail
A Dumbo rat requires a gentle, controlled bathing routine to avoid stress and ear injury. Follow these steps precisely.
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Prepare the environment
• Use a shallow basin with warm water (30‑32 °C).
• Fill to a depth of 2‑3 cm, enough to wet the fur without submerging the animal.
• Add a few drops of a pet‑safe, unscented shampoo formulated for rodents. -
Secure the rat
• Hold the rat gently but firmly, supporting the body with one hand while the other hand steadies the ears.
• Keep the ears upright to prevent water from entering the inner ear canal. -
Wet the coat
• Apply water with a soft cup or spray bottle, avoiding direct streams on the ears and face.
• Ensure the fur is thoroughly dampened before applying shampoo. -
Apply cleanser
• Dispense a minimal amount of shampoo onto the fingertips.
• Lather from the neck toward the tail, massaging the skin lightly.
• Do not scrub the ear folds; simply rinse the surrounding fur. -
Rinse completely
• Use a clean cup or gentle spray to flush out all soap residues.
• Verify that no suds remain, especially near the ears and whisker pads. -
Dry the animal
• Pat the coat with a soft, absorbent towel, taking care not to pull on the delicate ear cartilage.
• Allow the rat to air‑dry in a warm, draft‑free area for 10‑15 minutes before returning it to its cage. -
Post‑bath care
• Check the ears for moisture or irritation; gently wipe any excess water with a cotton swab.
• Observe the rat for signs of stress or abnormal behavior for the next hour.
Adhering to these procedures ensures a safe, effective cleaning process while protecting the unique ear structure of a Dumbo rat.