Why do rats need hay? - briefly
Hay supplies the fiber rats need for proper digestion and helps wear down continuously growing incisors. It also serves as enrichment, encouraging natural foraging activity and lowering stress levels.
Why do rats need hay? - in detail
Rats require hay as a source of roughage that supports gastrointestinal health. The fibrous material stimulates peristalsis, preventing constipation and aiding the passage of food through the digestive tract.
Hay also serves as a natural abrasive for continuously growing incisors. Regular gnawing on coarse strands wears down tooth length, reducing the risk of malocclusion that can impair feeding and lead to severe health issues.
In addition, hay provides environmental enrichment. Access to dry, tactile material encourages exploratory behavior, reduces stress, and promotes normal activity patterns, which contribute to overall well‑being.
Key benefits include:
- Fiber intake that regulates bowel movements
- Dental wear that maintains proper incisor length
- Sensory stimulation that mitigates stereotypic behaviors
Adequate provision of hay, alongside a balanced diet, ensures that rats meet essential physiological needs and sustain optimal health.