What should you do if a pet rat is not eating? - briefly
First, examine the rat for signs of illness—lethargy, weight loss, or abnormal discharge—and seek veterinary care if any are present. Next, reduce stress, keep water fresh, and present a mix of appealing foods such as high‑quality rat chow, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
What should you do if a pet rat is not eating? - in detail
If a pet rat stops consuming food, immediate assessment is required. First, observe the animal for additional symptoms such as lethargy, nasal discharge, trembling, or changes in stool. These signs help determine whether the issue is medical or environmental.
Check the environment. Ensure the cage is clean, dry, and free of strong odors. Replace bedding if it is damp or soiled, as moisture can discourage eating. Verify that the temperature remains within the optimal range of 68‑74 °F (20‑23 °C) and that drafts are absent.
Inspect the food. Offer fresh, high‑quality rat chow and supplement with small portions of protein (e.g., boiled egg, mealworms) and occasional treats (e.g., fruit, vegetables). Remove any moldy or stale items. Present food in a shallow dish to facilitate access.
Hydration must be maintained. Provide fresh water in a bottle with a clean sipper tip. If the rat refuses water, offer droplets on a syringe or a shallow dish for a short period.
If the rat continues to refuse nourishment after 24‑48 hours, consider the following actions:
- Physical examination – gently palpate the abdomen for swelling or pain; check the eyes and ears for discharge.
- Temperature check – use a rectal thermometer to detect fever (normal range 101‑103 °F / 38‑39 °C).
- Dental inspection – look for overgrown incisors or broken teeth that could impede chewing.
- Parasite screening – examine fur and skin for mites, fleas, or worms.
- Veterinary consultation – schedule an appointment with an exotic‑animal vet promptly; bring a sample of the rat’s stool and a list of recent diet changes.
While awaiting professional care, consider hand‑feeding using a small syringe or a soft tip applicator, offering nutrient‑dense liquid diets such as Pedialyte (unflavored) mixed with a tiny amount of protein powder. Limit sessions to a few minutes to avoid stress.
Monitor weight daily by gently weighing the rat on a digital scale. A loss of more than 5 % of body weight signals a critical condition and requires urgent intervention.
In summary, address hygiene, diet, and environmental factors first; observe for additional health indicators; maintain hydration; and seek veterinary assistance if the lack of intake persists beyond two days or if any serious symptoms appear.