What should be fed to rats? - briefly
Rats thrive on a nutritionally complete rodent pellet mix, enhanced with small portions of fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional protein foods like cooked egg or lean meat. Provide constant access to fresh, clean water.
What should be fed to rats? - in detail
Rats require a balanced diet that supplies protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals in proportions that support growth, reproduction, and immune function. Commercial rodent pellets formulated for laboratory or pet rats provide a reliable base; they contain 18‑20 % protein, adequate fiber, and essential micronutrients. Pellets should be the primary food source, offered daily in a clean container to prevent contamination.
Supplementary items can enhance nutrition and enrichment:
- Fresh vegetables: carrots, broccoli, spinach, bell peppers; provide vitamins A, C, K, and fiber. Offer 1–2 cubes per rat, remove uneaten portions within 24 hours.
- Fruit (occasionally): apple slices, berries, melon; supply natural sugars and antioxidants. Limit to a few pieces weekly to avoid digestive upset.
- Protein sources: boiled egg white, cooked chicken, mealworms; contribute amino acids for tissue repair. Provide ½ teaspoon per rat, no more than twice a week.
- Whole grains: oats, cooked brown rice, whole‑wheat pasta; add complex carbohydrates and B‑vitamins. Serve in small quantities alongside pellets.
- Nuts and seeds: sunflower seeds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds; high in fat; restrict to a few seeds per week to prevent obesity.
Water must be fresh, clean, and available at all times. Use a sipper bottle to reduce spillage and contamination. Change the supply daily and disinfect the bottle weekly.
Avoid foods that are toxic or pose health risks: chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, raw beans, avocado, citrus peels, and high‑salt or high‑sugar processed snacks. Also exclude moldy or spoiled items, as they can cause gastrointestinal illness.
Monitor body condition by feeling the ribs; a healthy adult rat should have a thin layer of fat covering but ribs should not be prominent. Adjust portion sizes if weight gain or loss is observed. Regular veterinary check‑ups can confirm that the diet meets the animal’s specific needs, especially for breeding colonies or rats with medical conditions.