What Do Rats Need to Eat?

Rats love to eat meat, but most don’t get enough of it in their diets. They occasionally eat carrion, but not much. In the wild, they get most of their protein from insects, while urban rats may occasionally eat hamburgers. Regardless of the amount of meat they consume, they need to eat a variety of foods.

A diet for a pet rat should include at least 90% pellets and 10% fresh vegetables, and an occasional healthy treat. If your pet rat eats pellets and vegetables, their portion size should be rat-sized. However, if your pet has a large appetite, you may want to provide smaller amounts of these foods.

Most vegetables are safe for rats and are a good supplement to pellets. Some examples of vegetables that your rat may enjoy are asparagus, carrots, cauliflower, corn, peas, and zucchini. Various types of leafy greens are great for them and will also provide calcium and phosphorus. Be careful though, as some vegetables are gas-producing.

Rats need a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals. They can eat commercial treats, but you should be sure to keep their food low-calorie and low-fat. Rats tend to overeat when they’re bored, and a high-calorie diet is not healthy for them.