What do small “Dambo” rats eat? - briefly
They feed mainly on tiny invertebrates—especially insect larvae and adult insects—while also consuming soft plant matter such as seeds, pollen, and fruit pulp. When animal prey is scarce, they may supplement their diet with fungi or detritus.
What do small “Dambo” rats eat? - in detail
Small Dambo rats require a diet that mirrors the nutritional profile of adult specimens but in reduced quantities to match their lower metabolic demands. Their meals should consist of three main components: protein sources, fiber‑rich vegetables, and supplemental minerals.
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Protein: 15–20 % of daily intake. Suitable options include boiled egg whites, cooked chicken breast, low‑fat cottage cheese, and commercially prepared rodent pellets formulated for young omnivores. Protein must be fresh and free of seasoning or additives.
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Fiber and carbohydrates: 45–55 % of the diet. Offer finely chopped leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and romaine lettuce; root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes, peeled and steamed lightly to improve digestibility; and small portions of whole‑grain cereals (e.g., oatmeal or barley). Avoid sugary fruits; if offered, limit to one or two bite‑size pieces per week.
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Minerals and vitamins: 5–10 % of the diet. Provide a calibrated dusting of calcium‑phosphate supplement on dry food, and a multivitamin powder formulated for small rodents, applied no more than twice weekly. Fresh, clean water must be available at all times.
Feeding schedule should involve two to three small meals per day, spaced evenly to prevent overloading the digestive system. Monitor body condition regularly; a healthy juvenile will maintain a sleek coat, display active behavior, and exhibit steady weight gain of approximately 2–3 g per week. Adjust portions promptly if excess weight or weight loss becomes apparent.