How should you care for two pet rats? - briefly
Provide a spacious, escape‑proof cage with appropriate bedding, hideouts, a water bottle, and a diet of commercial rat pellets supplemented by fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional protein. Clean the enclosure weekly, handle the rats daily to build trust, and schedule veterinary check‑ups every six months.
How should you care for two pet rats? - in detail
Provide a spacious cage with a solid floor; wire bottoms cause foot injuries. Use a minimum of 2 sq ft per animal, adding levels for climbing. Line the base with absorbent bedding such as paper or aspen, replace weekly, and spot‑clean daily to control odor.
Offer a balanced diet consisting of high‑quality rodent pellets, fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli, leafy greens) and occasional fruit. Limit sugary treats and avoid foods toxic to rats, such as chocolate, caffeine, and raw beans. Provide fresh water in a bottle with a metal spout, checked and refilled each day.
Supply enrichment items to stimulate natural behaviors: chew toys, tunnels, hammocks, and rotating objects. Change the layout regularly to prevent boredom. Ensure at least two hours of supervised handling each week to build trust and reduce stress.
Monitor health indicators daily: bright eyes, clean fur, active movement, and normal eating habits. Watch for signs of respiratory distress (sneezing, labored breathing), skin lesions, or abnormal discharge. Schedule a veterinary check‑up with an exotic‑pet specialist at least once a year, and seek immediate care if illness appears.
Maintain hygiene by cleaning the cage thoroughly every two weeks: discard old bedding, wash surfaces with mild, unscented detergent, rinse well, and dry before adding fresh substrate. Hand‑wash any toys or accessories, or replace them if they become worn.
Separate males and females unless intentional breeding is planned; mixed groups can lead to stress and aggression. Keep the pair together to satisfy their social nature, but provide occasional individual space if conflicts arise. Regular observation will reveal compatibility and allow timely intervention.