What should you feed a baby rat? - briefly
Baby rats need a high‑protein, low‑fat milk replacer made for rodents, supplemented with soft nutrient‑dense foods such as cooked egg yolk, finely chopped fruit, and commercial rodent pellets. Provide fresh water daily and avoid dairy, sugary treats, and hard foods until they are fully weaned.
What should you feed a baby rat? - in detail
A newborn rat requires a diet that mimics its mother’s milk until its teeth develop. Commercial rodent milk replacer, diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions, should be offered with a syringe or small nursing bottle. Feed every 2–3 hours, including overnight, providing 2–4 ml per feeding depending on the litter’s size and individual weight gain. Warm the formula to approximately 37 °C; cooler temperatures reduce intake, while overheating can cause burns.
When the pups’ incisors appear (around day 10–12), introduce soft, high‑protein foods. Suitable options include:
- Cooked egg white, finely shredded
- Mashed boiled chicken or turkey, skin‑less
- Small amounts of low‑fat cottage cheese
- Commercial rodent weaning formula or “baby mouse” diet
Offer these foods 3–4 times daily, gradually increasing portion size as the young rat gains weight. Ensure each feeding is presented on a shallow dish to encourage self‑feeding.
By three weeks of age, the diet should transition to a balanced adult rat chow supplemented with fresh items:
- High‑quality laboratory rodent pellets (minimum 18 % protein)
- Fresh vegetables: carrot, broccoli, cucumber, leafy greens (washed, chopped)
- Fresh fruits: apple, banana, berries (limited to 10 % of total intake to avoid excess sugar)
- Small protein treats: boiled egg, cooked lean meat, mealworms (occasionally)
Provide clean water ad libitum in a sipper bottle; replace daily to prevent bacterial growth. Monitor for signs of dehydration, such as skin tenting or sunken eyes, and adjust intake accordingly.
Avoid toxic or unsuitable foods, including:
- Citrus fruits, onions, garlic, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol
- High‑fat or heavily salted snacks
- Raw beans, raw potatoes, or any moldy produce
Maintain strict hygiene: sterilize feeding equipment after each use, clean cages regularly, and store food in airtight containers to prevent spoilage. Regular weight checks (daily for neonates, weekly thereafter) help confirm adequate growth; a healthy young rat should gain roughly 2–3 g per day during the first three weeks.