How to keep rats at home? - briefly
A well‑ventilated cage with solid flooring, appropriate bedding, and chew toys provides a safe environment. Feed quality pellets, fresh produce, occasional protein, and clean the enclosure weekly to prevent disease.
How to keep rats at home? - in detail
Keeping rats as indoor companions requires careful planning of habitat, nutrition, health monitoring, and environmental enrichment.
A suitable enclosure must be spacious, secure, and ventilated. Minimum dimensions for a pair of adult rats are 60 × 30 × 30 cm; larger cages reduce stress and allow for more activity. Choose a model with a lockable door and a solid base to prevent chewing through plastic flooring.
Bedding should be absorbent, dust‑free, and non‑toxic. Compressed paper pellets or aspen shavings meet these criteria; avoid pine or cedar, which contain aromatic oils harmful to respiratory systems. Replace soiled bedding weekly, and remove droppings daily to maintain hygiene.
Nutrition consists of a balanced commercial rat mix supplemented with fresh vegetables and occasional protein sources. Offer a measured portion of dry feed each morning, and provide a small amount of leafy greens, carrots, or apple slices. Fresh water must be available at all times through a sipper bottle that is cleaned and refilled daily.
Health management includes routine observation for signs of illness such as nasal discharge, lethargy, or abnormal grooming. Schedule a veterinary check‑up with a small‑animal practitioner at least twice a year. Maintain a record of weight, coat condition, and any treatments administered.
Environmental enrichment prevents boredom and promotes natural behaviors. Provide chewable items (wood blocks, untreated cardboard), climbing structures (ramp, ladder), and nesting material (tissue paper, cotton). Rotate toys regularly to sustain interest.
Cleaning protocol:
- Daily: remove uneaten food, spot‑clean waste, check water bottle.
- Weekly: replace all bedding, clean cage interior with mild, unscented detergent, rinse thoroughly.
- Monthly: disinfect cage components with a diluted bleach solution (1 % concentration), then rinse and dry completely before reassembly.
Safety considerations include sealing all gaps in the home to prevent escape, keeping toxic substances (cleaning agents, electrical cords) out of reach, and supervising interactions with other pets.
By adhering to these guidelines, rat owners can create a stable, healthy environment that supports the well‑being of their small companions.