How Long Do Fancy Rats Live?
WouterYou might wonder how long fancy rats live. It all depends on what they eat. Rats are omnivores, so they need a balanced diet that contains carbohydrates, protein, and fat. However, you must also pay attention to their scratching behavior, as excessive scratching can lead to scabs and other health problems. In general, they should get about four to six grams of fat per day, and seventy percent of their daily diet should be composed of carbohydrates.
Fancy rats are not necessarily healthier than other types of pet rats, but they have a lower risk of serious diseases like malignant tumors and upper respiratory infections. Generally, they live two to three years. However, it is important to do some research before buying a rat, as some breeders are not responsible enough to keep their rats healthy.
One way to increase your rat’s lifespan is to breed it with another rat. A rat’s lifespan is affected by its genetics, so it is important to choose the right pair of parents. A good breeder will have handled the baby rats from birth and provided a stimulating habitat, including a wheel.
The longest-living fancy rat in the world was born in Oklahoma in 1983 and lived until 1990. Rodney lived for seven years, four months. Although wild rats usually die before reaching sexual maturity, a domesticated Fancy Rat can reach up to 36 months. These animals also need a stimulating environment, proper nutrition, and exercise to remain healthy and active.
