What should not be fed to rats at home? - briefly
Rats should not be given chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, raw beans, sticky or sugary human snacks, citrus peels, onions, garlic, moldy or spoiled food, and any items containing artificial sweeteners or excessive salt.
What should not be fed to rats at home? - in detail
Pet rats require a diet that excludes several common household foods because of toxicity, digestive issues, or nutritional imbalance.
Sugary items such as candy, chocolate, and baked goods contain high levels of sugar and fat, which can lead to obesity, dental problems, and liver damage. Chocolate is especially hazardous due to theobromine, a stimulant that rats cannot metabolize effectively.
Citrus fruits and juices are acidic and may cause stomach irritation. Their high vitamin C content is unnecessary for rats, which synthesize the vitamin internally.
Raw or undercooked beans, particularly kidney, lima, and black beans, contain lectins that damage the intestinal lining and can be fatal if ingested.
Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, are lactose‑rich. Adult rats lack sufficient lactase enzymes, resulting in diarrhea and dehydration.
High‑salt foods such as chips, pretzels, and processed meats impose excessive sodium load, leading to hypertension and kidney strain.
Artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, are metabolized into toxic compounds that cause rapid hypoglycemia and liver failure.
Cooked bones, fishbones, and small hard objects pose choking hazards and can puncture the gastrointestinal tract.
Caffeinated beverages, energy drinks, and coffee contain stimulants that increase heart rate and cause nervous system disturbances.
Avocado flesh and pits contain persin, a toxin that can cause respiratory distress and cardiac issues in rodents.
Moldy or spoiled foods introduce mycotoxins and bacteria, resulting in severe gastrointestinal illness.
Nutmeg and other spices with high essential oil content irritate the digestive system and may cause liver toxicity.
In summary, avoid sugary treats, chocolate, citrus, raw beans, dairy, salty snacks, artificial sweeteners, hard bones, caffeine, avocado, spoiled food, and strong spices when feeding pet rats. Provide a balanced diet of commercial rat pellets, fresh vegetables, limited fruits, and occasional protein sources such as cooked eggs or lean meat.