What Should Pet Rats Eat?
WouterRats are omnivores, which means they need a balanced diet of plant-based and meat-based foods. While they love fatty and sweet foods, these items can be harmful to their health if given in excessive quantities. Rats should be fed at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening. If you can, avoid giving them free pellets, since this can lead to obesity in rats.
Rats need a variety of food sources to stay healthy and active. In addition to pellets, they also need to eat fresh vegetables on a daily basis. Ideally, a rat’s diet should contain a mixture of about 90 percent pellets and about 10 percent fresh vegetables, plus occasional healthy treats. Often, you can find pellets that are suitable substitutes for rat food, though be sure to consult your veterinarian before purchasing a pellet-based diet.
Rats also need clean water. A rat should drink between 22 and 33 milliliters of water daily. It’s also best to provide clean water bottles for your rat throughout the day. This will help keep their habitat clean and hygienic. For best results, use glass bottles and don’t use water bowls with heavy material because rats tend to chew them.
Rats are naturally curious, and they’ll take a little nibble of a new food. After awhile, they’ll trust their owners and start eating without testing. Just make sure you don’t feed them too much or you’ll risk them becoming sick. Baby rats are especially vulnerable to dehydration and hunger, and food should be given in appropriate portions.
