What should I feed a gray rat? - briefly
Feed a gray rat a diet primarily of high‑quality commercial rat pellets, which supply essential nutrients and calories. Supplement with small portions of fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional protein sources (e.g., boiled egg, mealworms) while avoiding toxic items such as chocolate, raw beans, and citrus peel.
What should I feed a gray rat? - in detail
A gray rat requires a balanced diet that supplies protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Commercial rodent pellets formulated for laboratory or pet rats serve as the primary source of nutrition; they contain calibrated levels of essential nutrients and should be offered daily in quantities matching the animal’s body weight (approximately 2–4 g per 100 g of body mass).
Supplementary fresh foods enhance diet variety and provide additional micronutrients. Suitable vegetables include carrots, broccoli, kale, spinach, and zucchini; each should be washed, trimmed, and presented in small, bite‑size pieces. Fruits such as apple (seedless), banana, berries, and melon may be given sparingly—no more than one teaspoon per day—to avoid excess sugar.
Protein can be sourced from cooked eggs, plain low‑fat yogurt, cooked chicken breast, or soy products. Offer ½–1 g of protein per 100 g of body weight each day, divided into two feedings. Insects like mealworms can be used as occasional treats for enrichment.
Water must be available at all times in a clean, spill‑proof bottle. Change the supply daily and monitor for contamination.
Foods to exclude are toxic or high‑fat items: chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, avocado, raw potatoes, onions, garlic, and processed snacks containing salt or sugar. Dairy products other than low‑fat yogurt may cause digestive upset and should be limited.
Feeding schedule: provide pellets and fresh foods twice daily, preferably morning and evening, and remove uneaten fresh items after 2–3 hours to prevent spoilage. Adjust portions based on the rat’s age, activity level, and health status; juveniles need higher protein ratios, while adults benefit from steady caloric intake to maintain weight.
Regularly inspect the rat’s coat, stool, and behavior for signs of nutritional deficiency or excess. If abnormalities arise, consult a veterinarian experienced with rodents.