What should be done after buying a rat? - briefly
Immediately provide a secure cage equipped with suitable bedding, fresh water, balanced food, and enrichment items. Then arrange a veterinary examination, start a gradual acclimation routine, and monitor the animal’s health and behavior each day.
What should be done after buying a rat? - in detail
After bringing a new rat home, the first priority is to create a safe, isolated environment. Set up a cage that meets size requirements—minimum 2 ft × 1 ft × 1 ft per animal—and equip it with a solid floor, chew‑proof bars, and a secure lid. Place the enclosure in a quiet, draft‑free area away from direct sunlight and household noise.
Next, introduce a quarantine period. Keep the newcomer separate from any existing rodents for at least seven days. During this time, observe for signs of illness such as nasal discharge, wheezing, lethargy, or abnormal stool. Provide fresh water, a balanced pellet diet, and a small amount of fresh vegetables daily. Avoid sugary treats that can cause digestive upset.
Conduct a health assessment after quarantine. Check the eyes, ears, and fur for parasites or injuries. Gently palpate the abdomen to ensure no swelling. If any abnormalities appear, schedule a veterinary examination with a practitioner experienced in small mammals. Even healthy rats benefit from a baseline health check within the first week.
Establish a routine for cage maintenance. Spot‑clean waste daily and perform a full cleaning weekly: remove all bedding, wash the cage with mild, unscented soap, rinse thoroughly, and replace with fresh, absorbent bedding such as paper‑based or aspen shavings. Avoid cedar or pine, which release oils harmful to rodents’ respiratory systems.
Provide enrichment to promote natural behaviors. Include climbing structures, tunnels, and nesting material like shredded tissue. Rotate toys regularly to prevent boredom. Offer safe chew items—untreated wood blocks or cardboard—to maintain dental health.
Begin regular handling to build trust. Approach the cage calmly, allow the rat to sniff your hand, then gently scoop it using both hands, supporting the hindquarters. Short, frequent sessions (5–10 minutes) reduce stress and facilitate future care tasks such as nail trimming or health checks.
Finally, record essential information: purchase date, source, sex, any identified health issues, and a schedule for vaccinations or deworming if recommended by a veterinarian. Maintaining detailed records supports long‑term well‑being and simplifies communication with veterinary professionals.