How should you care for a domestic rat? - briefly
Provide a spacious, escape‑proof cage, a balanced diet of high‑quality pellets, fresh vegetables, and occasional protein, regular handling, and routine veterinary health checks. Maintain a consistent cleaning schedule, supply chew toys and climbing structures, and watch for changes in behavior, appetite, or coat condition.
How should you care for a domestic rat? - in detail
A pet rat requires a well‑ventilated cage of at least 18 × 12 × 12 inches, equipped with a solid floor, chew‑proof bars, and a secure latch. Provide a nesting box lined with shredded paper or tissue for sleep and breeding. Place a solid platform or hammock for climbing, and include tunnels or PVC pipes to stimulate natural exploratory behavior.
Nutrition
- Commercial rat blocks or pellets as the staple, offered daily in a clean feeder.
- Fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli, bell pepper) in small quantities, introduced gradually.
- Occasional fruit (e.g., apple, banana) limited to a few bites to prevent sugar overload.
- Fresh water in a bottle with a metal spout; replace and clean the bottle each day.
- No sugary treats, dairy, or processed human foods.
Health and hygiene
- Spot‑clean waste daily; perform a full cage clean weekly, replacing bedding with absorbent, dust‑free material such as paper-based or aspen shavings.
- Trim nails only if they become overgrown; a gentle file can be used while the rat is calm.
- Monitor eyes, ears, and fur for discharge, redness, or loss.
- Observe appetite, weight, and activity level; a sudden decline signals possible illness.
- Schedule a veterinary check‑up with an exotic‑animal specialist at least once a year, and sooner if symptoms appear.
Social needs
- Rats are highly social; keep at least a pair of the same sex to prevent loneliness.
- Introduce new companions gradually, using a neutral enclosure before permanent cohabitation.
- Provide daily interaction: hand‑taming sessions of 5–10 minutes, gentle stroking, and supervised out‑of‑cage play.
Enrichment
- Rotate toys (e.g., wooden blocks, cardboard tubes, paper rolls) weekly to maintain interest.
- Offer safe chew items such as untreated wood blocks or mineral chews to wear down continuously growing teeth.
- Include foraging opportunities: hide small food pieces in paper nests or puzzle tubes.
Handling and safety
- Approach calmly, allowing the rat to sniff before lifting.
- Support the body with both hands, avoiding pressure on the spine.
- Keep the environment free of predators (cats, dogs) and loud noises that could cause stress.
By maintaining a clean habitat, balanced diet, regular health checks, and ample social and mental stimulation, a domestic rat can thrive for 2–3 years in a home setting.