What to feed a domestic rat? - briefly
A balanced diet for a pet rat consists of a high‑quality commercial rodent mix, fresh vegetables, occasional fruit, and protein sources like cooked egg or mealworms. Avoid sugary treats, raw potatoes, and foods high in fat or salt.
What to feed a domestic rat? - in detail
Domestic rats thrive on a balanced diet that combines nutritionally complete pellets, fresh plant matter, protein sources, and occasional treats. The foundation should be a high‑quality, grain‑based pellet formulated for rodents; these provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Offer the recommended daily portion (typically 1 – 2 grams per 100 g of body weight) in a clean feeder, and replace uneaten food each evening to prevent spoilage.
Fresh vegetables and fruits supply additional vitamins and hydration. Safe options include:
- Carrots, broccoli, kale, spinach, bell peppers
- Apple slices (core removed), blueberries, strawberries, banana (small pieces)
Provide no more than 10 % of the total diet by weight, chopping items into bite‑size pieces. Remove any uneaten produce after a few hours to avoid mold growth.
Protein should be offered in modest quantities several times a week. Suitable items are:
- Cooked egg (hard‑boiled, chopped) – ½ teaspoon per serving
- Small pieces of lean chicken, turkey, or cooked fish – ¼ teaspoon per serving
- Live or dried mealworms, crickets – ¼ teaspoon per serving
Avoid raw meat, dairy, and processed foods that can cause digestive upset.
Treats serve as enrichment but must remain limited. Acceptable choices are:
- Small pieces of whole‑grain cereal or oat biscuits
- Unsweetened yogurt drops (occasionally)
Forbidden foods include chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, onions, garlic, avocado, and any high‑sugar or high‑fat snacks. Even tiny amounts can be toxic.
Fresh water should be available at all times in a tip‑proof bottle; replace it daily and clean the dispenser weekly. Feed pellets twice daily, supplement with fresh produce once or twice, and rotate protein sources to maintain variety. Regularly inspect the cage for leftover food, droppings, and signs of spoilage, discarding any contaminated items promptly. This regimen supports optimal health, growth, and longevity for a pet rat.