What foods do rats eat? - briefly
Rats eat grains, seeds, fruits, vegetables, nuts, small insects, and occasional meat or pet‑food scraps. Their diet adjusts to the foods available in their environment.
What foods do rats eat? - in detail
Rats are opportunistic omnivores that adjust their intake to the resources available in their environment. In the wild they consume a broad spectrum of items, while captive individuals rely on formulated feeds supplemented with selected fresh foods.
In natural habitats the diet includes:
- Grains and seeds such as wheat, corn, barley, and millet
- Plant matter: leaves, stems, roots, and tubers
- Fruits and berries, for example apples, grapes, and wild cherries
- Invertebrates: insects, larvae, earthworms, and occasional arthropods
- Small vertebrates and carrion when available
Laboratory and pet rats receive nutritionally balanced rodent chow. These pellets provide a consistent mix of:
- 18‑20 % protein from soy or casein sources
- 4‑6 % fat, primarily from vegetable oils
- Complex carbohydrates for energy
- Fiber to support gastrointestinal health
- Added vitamins (A, D, E, K, B‑complex) and minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium)
Fresh foods can enrich the diet but must be offered in moderation:
- Vegetables: broccoli, carrots, kale, spinach, zucchini
- Fruits: banana, melon, berries, pear (remove seeds)
- Protein treats: boiled egg, cooked chicken, low‑fat cheese, mealworms
Foods that pose health risks and should be excluded:
- High‑salt snacks, processed meats, and seasoned foods
- Toxic items: chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, raw beans, onion, garlic, avocado skin and pit, citrus peels, and certain nuts (e.g., macadamia)
- Sugary sweets, sticky foods, and moldy or spoiled produce
Rats require a balance of macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrates) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) to maintain growth, reproduction, and immune function. Adequate fiber prevents gastrointestinal blockage, while sufficient protein supports muscle development and fur quality. Water must be continuously available in a clean container.