What can you feed a pet rat? - briefly
A balanced diet for a pet rat consists of high‑quality rodent pellets, fresh vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and leafy greens, occasional fruits like apple or banana, and small portions of protein sources such as cooked egg, mealworms, or plain cooked chicken.
What can you feed a pet rat? - in detail
Rats are omnivores that require a balanced mix of protein, fat, fiber, vitamins and minerals. A diet that meets these macronutrient ratios promotes healthy growth, dental maintenance and immune function.
A commercial rat pellet or block formulated for rodents should form the foundation of every meal. These products contain precisely measured nutrients and eliminate the need for complex calculations.
Fresh foods can be offered daily in moderate amounts:
- Leafy greens such as kale, spinach and romaine lettuce
- Crunchy vegetables including carrots, broccoli and bell peppers
- Low‑sugar fruits like apples (seedless), blueberries and strawberries
- Cooked lean meats, boiled eggs or plain tofu for additional protein
- Whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice and whole‑wheat pasta
- Small portions of unsalted nuts and seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds) for healthy fats
Foods that must be excluded entirely:
- Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and nicotine
- Citrus fruits, raw onions, garlic and leeks
- Processed snacks, sugary treats and salty chips
- High‑fat meats, cheese and greasy leftovers
- Seeds from fruits (e.g., apple cores) and any moldy or spoiled items
Feeding schedule should consist of two to three small portions per day, with fresh water available at all times. Clean the feeding area each evening to prevent bacterial growth. Monitor body condition regularly; adjust portion sizes if the rat appears overweight or underweight.