What do you need for keeping rats at home? - briefly
A suitable cage with solid flooring, bedding, food and water containers, enrichment toys, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check‑ups are essential. Additionally, a secure lid, cleaning supplies, and a hideout provide health and safety for the pets.
What do you need for keeping rats at home? - in detail
Keeping pet rats at home requires a secure enclosure, appropriate nutrition, hydration, enrichment, and basic health care supplies.
A suitable cage should be made of solid plastic or metal with a wire mesh top that prevents escape. Minimum dimensions are 2 ft × 1 ft × 1 ft per pair of rats, providing enough space for movement and nesting. Include a solid floor covered with absorbent bedding such as paper-based or aspen shavings; avoid pine or cedar, which release harmful oils.
Feeding equipment consists of a stainless‑steel bowl for dry pellets or a balanced commercial rat diet, supplemented with fresh vegetables and occasional fruit. A sipper bottle with a metal drinking tube ensures constant access to clean water; replace the bottle weekly and clean the tube to prevent bacterial growth.
Enrichment items are essential for mental stimulation. Provide chewable toys (untreated wood blocks, cardboard tubes), tunnels, climbing ladders, and hideouts. Rotate these objects regularly to maintain interest.
Cleaning tools include a small scoop for waste removal, a mild disinfectant safe for rodents, and a dedicated trash bin. Perform spot cleaning daily and a thorough cage wash weekly, replacing the bedding each time.
Health supplies should comprise a basic first‑aid kit: antiseptic solution, cotton swabs, nail clippers, and a digital thermometer. Keep a record of each rat’s weight and any signs of illness, and establish a relationship with a veterinarian experienced in small‑animal care.
Finally, consider a quiet, low‑traffic area of the home for the enclosure, protected from direct sunlight, drafts, and extreme temperatures. Maintaining stable ambient conditions (65–75 °F, 40–60 % humidity) supports the rats’ wellbeing.