Why do decorative rats die? - briefly
Decorative rat figures typically perish because the materials they are made from—plastic, fabric, taxidermied specimens, etc.—degrade over time or become unsuitable for sustained display, resulting in decay or mortality. Exposure to humidity, temperature swings, and improper handling speeds this deterioration.
Why do decorative rats die? - in detail
Decorative rats often succumb to preventable factors that stem from inadequate husbandry and health management. The most common causes include:
- Improper nutrition – diets lacking essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals weaken immune function and accelerate organ failure.
- Unsuitable environment – temperatures below 65 °F (18 °C) or above 80 °F (27 °C) cause stress, respiratory issues, and metabolic disturbances.
- Inadequate ventilation – stagnant air increases ammonia buildup, leading to respiratory infections and lung damage.
- Poor sanitation – dirty bedding and contaminated water sources harbor pathogens such as Salmonella and Streptococcus, resulting in septicemia.
- Genetic defects – inbreeding for specific coloration or size can produce congenital heart defects, skeletal abnormalities, and reduced lifespan.
- Excessive handling or rough treatment – frequent, aggressive interaction triggers chronic stress, elevates cortisol levels, and predisposes rats to gastrointestinal ulcers.
- Lack of enrichment – absence of nesting material, tunnels, or toys deprives rats of natural behaviors, causing psychological stress and self‑injury.
- Undiagnosed disease – common ailments like respiratory infections, tumors, and renal failure often remain unnoticed without regular veterinary check‑ups.
Mitigating these risks requires a comprehensive care plan: balanced commercial rodent feed supplemented with fresh vegetables, a temperature‑controlled enclosure with proper airflow, daily cleaning of cages and water bottles, selective breeding practices to avoid hereditary problems, gentle handling techniques, and routine veterinary examinations. Implementing these measures significantly reduces mortality rates among ornamental rats.