What should Dambo rats not eat? - briefly
Avoid sugary treats, citrus fruits, dairy products, processed snacks, raw beans, avocado, onions, and chocolate, as these items can cause toxicity or severe digestive problems in Dambo rats.
What should Dambo rats not eat? - in detail
Dumbo rats require a diet that excludes several categories of food because they can cause digestive upset, nutritional imbalances, or toxic reactions. The following items should be avoided entirely:
- Citrus fruits – high acidity can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
- Raw potatoes and green tomato skins – contain solanine, a glycoalkaloid that is poisonous to rodents.
- Avocado flesh and pit – persin, a toxin found in avocado, can lead to respiratory distress and heart damage.
- Chocolate and caffeine‑containing products – methylxanthines interfere with heart rate and can be fatal in small doses.
- Alcohol and sugary drinks – impair liver function and promote obesity.
- Artificial sweeteners (e.g., xylitol) – can cause rapid insulin release and hypoglycemia.
- High‑fat processed foods – lead to obesity, hepatic lipidosis, and pancreatitis.
- Dairy products – many rats lack sufficient lactase, resulting in diarrhea and discomfort.
- Raw or undercooked beans, especially kidney beans – contain phytohaemagglutinin, a potent toxin.
- Onions, garlic, and other allium species – produce hemolytic compounds that damage red blood cells.
In addition to these specific items, any food that is heavily salted, heavily seasoned, or contains preservatives should be excluded. Fresh, plain vegetables, fruits in moderation, high‑quality rat pellets, and occasional protein sources such as boiled egg or lean cooked chicken are safe and nutritionally appropriate. Regularly review the diet to ensure no accidental inclusion of prohibited foods.