How to care for a Dambo rat? - briefly
Provide a roomy cage with solid flooring, regular cleaning, and enrichment items while keeping ambient temperature between 18 °C and 24 °C and ensuring continuous access to fresh water. Feed a high‑quality pellet base supplemented with fresh vegetables, occasional protein treats, and monitor health with routine veterinary checks.
How to care for a Dambo rat? - in detail
A suitable enclosure for a Dambo rat requires a minimum floor area of 0.5 m², solid-bottom construction, and secure ventilation. Use absorbent, dust‑free bedding such as paper pulp; replace weekly to prevent mold. Maintain ambient temperature between 18 °C and 24 °C and relative humidity around 50 %. Provide climbing structures, tunnels, and chew‑safe toys to stimulate natural behavior.
Dietary care includes a base of high‑quality rat pellets, supplemented with fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli, leafy greens) and occasional fruit (e.g., apple slices, berries). Offer a small portion of protein such as boiled egg or mealworm twice weekly. Provide clean, fresh water at all times; a bottle with a metal spout prevents contamination.
Health management involves regular observation for signs of respiratory distress, nasal discharge, or abnormal grooming. Schedule a veterinary check‑up at least once a year; vaccinate against common rodent diseases where applicable. Trim overgrown nails using appropriate clippers; monitor teeth for excessive growth and provide hard objects for natural filing.
Social requirements dictate housing in pairs or small groups, as Dambo rats are highly sociable. Ensure compatible temperaments to reduce aggression. Daily handling sessions of 5–10 minutes habituate the animal to human contact and reduce stress.
Routine maintenance includes spot‑cleaning soiled bedding daily, full substrate change weekly, and thorough disinfection of cages, water bottles, and feeding dishes with a mild, non‑toxic solution. Rotate enrichment items regularly to maintain interest and prevent boredom.