How Heavy Should Rats Be?
WouterIn order to maintain the health of your rat, you must know how heavy they should be. You should weigh your rat on a regular basis to ensure they are healthy. You should also keep an eye on the amount of fat your rat is carrying. It may be hard to see it, but you can often feel it under the layer of muscle. If your rat is carrying too much weight, it will look chubby and unhealthy.
The ideal weight for your pet rat is between 0.88 and 1.5 pounds for males and 0.44 to 1.1 pounds for females. This weight range is dependent on the breed and body size of your rat. If you do not know your rat’s exact weight, you can consult a veterinarian.
Rats can weigh anywhere between 0.15 and 35 grams at birth. At around 18 weeks, they can begin eating different kinds of food. If you are getting a large litter, you can add extra food to give your new pet an opportunity to try new foods. After six weeks, your rat will be fully developed and weigh about 150 grams. At this age, it is important to separate the male and female rats. This is to prevent any unwanted pregnancies.
In addition, you should avoid giving your rat foods that could cause liver cancer. Ideally, your rat should be fed foods that provide mental and physical stimulation. You can also consider giving your rat treats to keep them happy. Moreover, the best food for your rat is a rat food that is fortified with essential nutrients.
