What do Dambo breed rats like to eat? - briefly
Dambo’s breeding rats receive a diet of high‑protein pellets complemented by fresh vegetables and occasional fruit. Supplemental treats such as boiled eggs or mealworms add extra nutrients.
What do Dambo breed rats like to eat? - in detail
Rats bred by Dambo require a balanced diet that meets their high metabolic rate and supports rapid growth. The core component should be a high‑quality laboratory pellet formulated for rodents, containing 14–16 % protein, 4–5 % fat, 5 % fiber, and a complete vitamin‑mineral complex. Pellets provide consistent nutrient ratios and reduce the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
Fresh produce supplements the pellet base. Acceptable vegetables include:
- Carrots, finely chopped
- Broccoli florets
- Spinach leaves
- Bell‑pepper strips
- Cucumber slices
Fruits may be offered in small quantities to avoid excess sugar:
- Apple cubes (no seeds)
- Blueberries
- Pear slices
- Banana bits
Protein enrichment is beneficial for breeding colonies. Suitable sources are:
- Cooked egg white, 1 – 2 g per rat per day
- Small pieces of lean chicken breast, boiled and unseasoned
- Low‑fat cottage cheese, 0.5 g per rat per day
- Insect larvae (e.g., mealworms), 1 – 2 g per rat per week
Grains and seeds can be added for chewing enrichment, but should not exceed 10 % of total intake:
- Whole‑grain oatmeal
- Sunflower seeds (unsalted, in moderation)
- Small amounts of cooked brown rice
Water must be available at all times from a clean bottle with a stainless‑steel spout. Daily inspection ensures freshness and prevents contamination.
Feeding schedule: provide measured portions of pellets twice daily (morning and evening). Offer fresh vegetables and fruit once per day, removing uneaten items after two hours to avoid spoilage. Protein treats are given two to three times weekly, spaced evenly to maintain consistent protein levels.
Monitoring: track body weight weekly; a healthy adult dambo‑bred rat maintains a steady weight within the strain‑specific range (approximately 250–300 g for males, 200–250 g for females). Adjust portions if weight deviates by more than 5 % over two consecutive measurements.
Avoid: sugary snacks, citrus peels, raw potatoes, and any food containing artificial sweeteners or preservatives, as these can cause gastrointestinal distress or toxicity.