How should a rat be kept? - briefly
Rats need a roomy cage with solid flooring, thick bedding, constant access to fresh water, a balanced diet, and daily enrichment items such as tunnels and chew toys. Clean the enclosure weekly and ensure regular social interaction to promote health.
How should a rat be kept? - in detail
Proper care of a pet rat involves providing a secure enclosure, appropriate nutrition, regular hygiene, environmental stability, and mental stimulation.
A cage must be solid‑bottom, ventilated, and large enough for the animal to move freely. Minimum dimensions for a single rat are 45 × 30 × 30 cm; larger spaces are preferable, especially for groups. Bar spacing should not exceed 1 cm to prevent escape. The structure should be escape‑proof, with doors that latch securely.
Bedding should be absorbent, dust‑free, and non‑toxic. Paper‑based or aspen shavings work well; avoid cedar or pine, which contain volatile oils harmful to respiratory systems. Replace soiled material at least twice weekly, and perform a full clean every two weeks.
Fresh water must be available at all times, supplied via a sipper bottle with a metal tube to prevent gnawing. Check the bottle daily for leaks or blockage.
Nutrition consists of a high‑quality rodent pellet as the staple, supplemented with fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli) and occasional protein sources (e.g., boiled egg, mealworms). Limit sugary treats and avoid foods toxic to rodents, such as chocolate, caffeine, and raw beans.
Enrichment is essential for preventing boredom and promoting natural behaviors. Provide:
- Chewable items (untreated wood blocks, mineral chews) to wear down continuously growing incisors.
- Nesting material (shredded paper, tissue) for building burrows.
- Climbing structures (ropes, platforms) to encourage exercise.
- Interactive toys (tunnels, tubes) that can be rearranged.
Rats are social animals; housing them in compatible groups of two or more reduces stress and supports healthy development. Introduce new individuals gradually, monitoring for aggression.
Maintain ambient temperature between 18 °C and 24 °C, with a stable light cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours darkness. Avoid direct drafts and excessive humidity.
Health monitoring includes weekly observation of coat condition, eye clarity, and activity level. Schedule veterinary check‑ups at least twice a year, and promptly isolate any rat showing signs of illness (e.g., nasal discharge, lethargy, weight loss).
Regular handling acclimates the animal to human contact. Begin with short, gentle sessions, gradually increasing duration as the rat becomes comfortable. Wash hands before and after handling to reduce stress and prevent disease transmission.