Do You Have to Give Rats Baths?
WouterTo avoid causing stress and agitation to your rat, avoid giving it a bath too often. Depending on the size of your rat, baths should be given as little as possible. Also, try not to use shampoo. Generally, warm water is sufficient. If you must use shampoo, you can buy a no-rinse formula that is free of perfumes and chemicals. You can also use a lathering shampoo on occasion.
Rats enjoy baths, and although they might be wary at first, they will get used to the water and enjoy it. However, you should avoid forcing them to take a bath, as it will scare them. Besides, wild rats often swim to get where they’re going.
Although some rats have relaxed personal hygiene, you should still bathe them when they are very dirty. This will prevent the buildup of chemicals that can lead to infections. It’s also a good time to check the penis for waxy plugs. Afterward, be sure to thoroughly dry your rat and allow it to dry before releasing it again.
You should also clip your rat’s nails if you want to avoid scratching your hands. A rat may get very stressed if you clip its nails too short. In addition, you’ll risk cutting the rat’s toe. If you’re unsure of how to do it, you can ask your vet for a demonstration. Also, make sure you stay away from the quick – the purple/dark red line that runs down the nail near the toe.
