What must not be fed to the rat “Dumbo”? - briefly
Do not feed Dumbo chocolate, caffeine, high‑fat processed foods, raw beans, or sugary treats. These items can cause toxicity, digestive distress, or fatal health complications.
What must not be fed to the rat “Dumbo”? - in detail
Never give Dumbo any of the following substances. Each item poses a specific health risk that can lead to acute or chronic illness in rats.
- Chocolate, caffeine, and nicotine – contain theobromine and other stimulants that cause cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and potentially fatal toxicity.
- Raw or undercooked beans (especially kidney beans) – contain phytohaemagglutinin, a toxin that induces severe gastrointestinal distress and hemolysis.
- Citrus peel and seeds – high in essential oils and citric acid that irritate the digestive tract and can cause liver strain.
- Avocado flesh and pit – contain persin, a fatty acid derivative toxic to many mammals, leading to respiratory distress and myocardial damage.
- Alcohol, fermented foods, and any form of ethanol – depress the central nervous system, causing hypothermia, loss of coordination, and possible death.
- High‑sugar sweets, candy, and processed snacks – promote obesity, insulin resistance, and dental disease; rats lack the enzymatic capacity to metabolize large quantities of sucrose efficiently.
- Salty foods, chips, and processed meats – excess sodium leads to dehydration, hypertension, and renal failure.
- Dairy products in large amounts – many rats are lactose intolerant; ingestion results in diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and electrolyte imbalance.
- Bones, nuts, and hard seeds – present choking hazards and can cause dental fractures or gastrointestinal perforation.
- Artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol – can cause rapid insulin release, hypoglycemia, and hepatic failure.
In addition to the items listed, avoid feeding any food that is moldy, spoiled, or contaminated with pesticides. Even small amounts of these dangerous substances can trigger toxic reactions in a small rodent such as Dumbo. Provide a diet consisting of certified rodent pellets, fresh vegetables, and occasional fruit treats, and monitor intake to ensure nutritional balance and safety.