How to keep two rats? - briefly
Provide a spacious cage with separate nesting zones, a balanced diet, regular cleaning, and opportunities for social interaction. Monitor health, supply chew toys, and handle the animals gently to prevent stress.
How to keep two rats? - in detail
Keeping a pair of rats together requires attention to housing, diet, health monitoring, social interaction, and environmental enrichment.
Provide a spacious cage that offers at least 2 sq ft of floor area per animal. A solid-bottom enclosure with a secure lid prevents escape and protects against predators. Include a deep layer of absorbent bedding, such as paper or aspen shavings, changed weekly to maintain hygiene. Install a solid platform or hammock for climbing, and ensure the cage has multiple levels to accommodate natural exploratory behavior.
Offer a balanced diet consisting of a high‑quality rodent pellet as the staple, supplemented with fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli) and occasional fruit. Provide continuous access to clean drinking water, preferably via a metal bottle with a sipper tube to avoid contamination. Limit treats to small portions to prevent obesity.
Monitor health daily by observing coat condition, activity level, and toileting patterns. Schedule veterinary check‑ups at least twice a year, and vaccinate against common diseases where appropriate. Separate any individual showing signs of illness to prevent spread.
Facilitate social bonding by introducing the pair at a young age, preferably before sexual maturity, to reduce territorial aggression. Allow supervised out‑of‑cage playtime in a secure, rat‑proof area for at least 30 minutes each day. Provide chewable items (e.g., untreated wood blocks, cardboard tubes) and nesting material (e.g., shredded paper) to satisfy instinctual gnawing and nest‑building needs.
Maintain a routine cleaning schedule: spot‑clean soiled areas daily, replace bedding weekly, and perform a full cage sanitization monthly using mild, non‑toxic cleaners. Ensure ventilation without drafts to prevent respiratory issues.
By adhering to these guidelines—adequate space, proper nutrition, vigilant health checks, enriched environment, and consistent social interaction—owners can ensure the well‑being and longevity of a rat pair.