These Short-Haired Dogs Make For Low Maintenance Pets
What To Feed A Rat - WebMD
Rats are great pets for those who want a furry friend but may not have enough space for a dog or cat. Domestic rats in particular can be friendly, calm, and can bond emotionally with their owners. Domesticated rats come in several varieties, including Dumbo Rats, Manx Rats, and Dwarf Rats. They also have different coat types and different tail styles.
However, while there are many types of domesticated rat, they tend to all have one thing in common. That's what they like to eat and what's safe for them to eat.
Rats are omnivores, meaning they are healthiest when they eat a combination of fruits, veggies, and meats.
So, the best rat diet consists of mostly fresh fruits and vegetables, plus a small portion of rat pellets or rat cube food daily. Make sure the rat pellets have at least 16% protein content and 4-5% fat content for a balanced rat diet. A rat's favorite fruits and vegetables include:
There are also some foods you can feed your rat, but only when they are cooked. In their raw form, they may be harmful. These foods are:
Like all pets, rats love treats. Rats are smart and can be very food motivated so you may even be able to train your pet rat to do tricks or tasks by motivating them with a treat. Some of a rat's favorite treats include:
These foods have lots of carbs and some have lots of sugar, so they should only be given to rats as a treat.
Some foods can be poisonous or harmful to pet rats, and you should not give them to your rat. Some foods to avoid feeding include (please note, this is not an exhaustive list):
Rats are smart creatures and they need stimulation to remain happy. In their natural environment, they use their intelligence to scavenge for food. Trying a few of these tricks to make their food experience more fun can make them happier and more active:
Keep in mind rats also love to chew on things for the health of their teeth. In addition to treats, make sure to provide them with cardboard, coconut shells, or even soft wood. Make sure to bake the wood on low heat for an hour and wash it before giving it to your rat.
It's common for pet rats to be obese. They love eating anything they can get their paws on. Rats that live in cages are particularly prone to being overweight. Obesity in rats can lead to similar health problems as in other animals and humans. However, due to their small size, the most pressing problem is the development of large fat deposits under the skin called lipomas that can grow large enough to inhibit movement.
The good news is that rats love to be active, so making them solve puzzles to get their food, putting them in multi-level cages, or letting them out to run around when and where it is safe to do so are all ways to keep your rat's weight under control.
Also, make sure to give them "treat" types of foods only occasionally, and feed them the proper amount of other foods for their size.
The Complete Guide To Caring For Pet Rats - AOL
A fancy white rat peeks over a cage bar© Linda Bestwick/Shutterstock.Com
Rats are thin-tailed, medium-sized rodents, and you can find them all over the world. "True rats" belong to the genus Rattus, and around 60 species have been recognized so far, including the house rat or black rat (Rattus rattus). They are often associated with disease and squalor, and people spend a lot of time and effort trying to get rid of them. Conversely, they also make very good pets, and other people spend a lot of time and money obtaining them and caring for them. A pet rat typically costs between $15 to $100, and they live for 2-4 years. As is the case with any pet, before you get a pet rat, you should do your research to make sure you can care for them correctly. This complete guide to caring for rats is the perfect place to start.
Varieties of Pet RatsAvoid sharp edges and objects in your pet hairless rat's cage as these can hurt their delicate skin.
©Pighurska Valentyna/Shutterstock.Com
All pet rats belong to the Rattus norvegicus species (Norway rats) and are referred to as fancy rats. They have been selectively bred for over 150 years for specific physical and behavioral traits as well as longevity. This has resulted in seven varieties currently recognized by the American Fancy Rat & Mouse Association (AFRMA). Each variety has slightly different care needs, so it is an important choice.
Standard VarietyThese have short, smooth, and glossy coats, although the males may have a coarser coat than the females. In general, they are easy to look after and have no special dietary or medical needs.
Rex VarietyYou can also get rex rabbits, guinea pigs, and cats. They have a curly coat (that feels woolly) and may even have curly whiskers. You may also see them called Manx rats.
Tailless VarietyAs their name suggests, this type of fancy rat has no tail. They may also have a more rounded body shape than other rats. Unfortunately, they can also suffer from genetic medical issues and deformities, such as hind leg deformities and bladder and bowel issues. You may also see them called Sphinx rats.
Hairless VarietyThe aptly named hairless rats do not have any hair at all, but some can have whiskers. Thanks to the lack of a protective coat, they need very careful temperature control as they can get chilled. They frequently get ill, and their life expectancy is shorter than most other types. Some breeders feel that breeding this type of rat is not ethical.
Satin VarietyA striking-looking rat with a long, smooth, and silky coat that may need extra care. They also have exceptionally long whiskers with a curl at the end.
Dumbo VarietyThis common type of pet rat has larger, low-set ears, which may remind you of an elephant. Some people feel that this variety is friendlier and longer-living than the other types.
Bristle Coat VarietyThese rats have a stiff, coarse coat that may even feel crunchy. Some have a curl at the end of their whiskers.
Pet Rat ColorsThe next decision is which color you prefer. There are over 40 distinct colors listed by the AFRMA. Rats can be all one color or one of several combinations. These include beige, black, pink-eyed white, blue point Siamese, and silver mink.
Is a Rat the Right Pet for You?Ask yourself if your lifestyle is appropriate for a pet rat and, if not, are you willing to change it? Here are some of the main questions to ask yourself:
Is your landlord/parent/spouse/housemate happy with you getting a pet rat?
Do you have room for a large enough cage in an appropriate position?
Can you afford the initial costs, the ongoing costs, and potential medical expenses?
Do you have time to interact with your pet rat every day, feed them, and clean them out?
Who will care for it when you go away?
If you have young children, how will you make sure that they do not hurt the rat and that the rat will not hurt them?
There are three potential sources of pet rats. The first is a pet store, which is both the most common and cheapest choice. The supply is plentiful, and you are unlikely to have to travel far to get one. You can help ensure your rat's health by asking questions about its breeding history and age. Baby rats wean at four weeks at the earliest, so you should not be offered one younger than this. Also, ask if they have been kept as single sex groups only – female rats can get pregnant at 5 weeks old, and you don't want to wake up one morning and find your cage full of babies! Sadly, many pet stores obtain their rats from "mill" style breeders, which can result in your pet having a poor temperament or health, or both.
Local breeders are a better option, especially if they are established and experienced. However, not all are reputable, so get personal recommendations or references/reviews if you can. A good breeder will offer ongoing support because they care about the animals they are supplying.
Your final option is to rehome a pet rat from a rescue center. However, beware that these animals may have been surrendered because of health or behavioral issues, and females may be pregnant. When making your choice, it is not just looks that matter. Take time to handle and interact with the rat before making your decision. It is best to avoid skittish ones that clearly hate being handled or that show signs of aggression.
Cages for RatsThere are several types of rat cages.
©Liukov/Shutterstock.Com
You have a few options when it comes to appropriate housing for rats, and each has its pros and cons. In terms of size, the general rule is the bigger, the better. As a general guide, a 10-gallon aquarium would be suitable for two females or one male. Here are some of the most common options.
Glass AquariumsGlass aquariums will need a wire mesh lid to make them appropriate for housing rats, and this is not always easy to source. On the whole, they are inexpensive and easy to clean and disinfect. You will have a clear view of your pet, and the bedding will not be scattered on your floor. However, they do not allow much air circulation, so they can get hot and stuffy, and condensation can form.
Plastic Rat cagesThese are lightweight, robust, and readily available in a range of designs in pet stores. They are easy to clean, do not allow shavings to be scattered, and are relatively cheap. However, plastic can become brittle, it can be poorly ventilated, and rats can chew the plastic.
Tube SystemsTube systems are essentially plastic cages with tubes linking around the top or sides. Some are simple, but others have an extensive tube network. The theory is that this reproduces underground runs and tunnels. These cages are particularly appealing to children, and they have all the advantages of plastic cages. They also have all the disadvantages of plastic cages, plus they are very hard to clean!
Wire CagesWire cages usually consist of a solid plastic base and a wire mesh frame. There can be several levels (shelves) and doors. You need to be careful when choosing these for a pet rat. The shelves must be made of mesh no bigger than ½" by ½" mesh because rats can catch their feet in small mesh and break their legs. Cages with wire bottoms can cause bumblefoot (inflammation) in rats.
Some designs make it almost impossible to get to your rat due to inaccessible corners and doors that are too small. Tall, narrow cages are not suitable for rats as they are ground dwellers and need a base that is at least half as long as the cage is tall. These cages are lightweight, have excellent ventilation, and have room for plenty of enrichment, but they can be hard to clean, may be drafty, and shavings will be scattered everywhere!
Shelters and Bedding MaterialRats need a safe, dark hiding place where they can build a nest and get away from the light. It needs to have multiple exits. Large cardboard tubes (that are constantly replaced as they are chewed) are a good option. The cage also needs a generous layer of bedding material such as wood chips, cellulose-based chips, or shredded filter paper (unfragranced and uncolored). Sawdust, however, is too dusty, and aspen (pine) can cause breathing problems. Highly absorbent bedding material can make humidity levels too low. Also, provide white tissue paper or hay that they can use to make a nest. Fluffy material like cotton wool is a health hazard for them.
Cage Placement and CleaningPlace the cage away from strong artificial smells (such as smoke), and away from high humidity and dust. It needs to be well-ventilated but not exposed to a draft. Also, keep it away from direct sunlight – bright light causes stress and damages their eyes. Their ideal temperature is between 66 and 89 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, do not expose them to sudden noises or electrical equipment.
Rats are clean animals, and their cage needs to be cleaned out once a week. Remove dropping, soiled bedding, and uneaten food. Leave a little of the unsoiled clean nesting material behind to keep some familiar smells within the cage
Pet Rat Diet and Nutrition Commercial Rat PelletsThere are formulated, balanced diets available, which are the best option for all but the most experienced pet rat owners. Commercial rat food is available as pellets or cubes. Never feed your rat pellets designed for other animals, such as rabbits. Some owners find that cubes stop the rats from hoarding feed (which can go mouldy) and help to grind down their teeth, which constantly grow. Look for food that has a protein content of 14-16 percent and a fat content of around 5 percent. Follow the guidance on quantities given on the packet or given by your vet.
Fresh Food and TreatsRats can eat small amounts of leafy greens.
©lauraag/ via Getty Images
Part of their daily food allowance can be given as dark greens and non-starchy vegetables. Examples include kale, broccoli, bok choy, and peas. In addition, up to 10 percent of your pet's total daily calorific intake can be given as fruit treats to give them some variety. Examples include strawberries, pears, melons, and blueberries. Together, this amounts to approximately 1-2 teaspoons of vegetables and a maximum of 1 teaspoon of fruit. As rats are omnivores, a bite-sized portion of yoghurt, cooked chicken, or cooked eggs is also suitable.
Feeding GuidancePet rats should be fed once in the morning and once in the evening. Use an open ceramic bowl but not a metal one, as the noise will deter them. Allow them to carry food around and hold it in their paws – this is natural foraging behavior. Food that allows them to chew and gnaw is best. Even better, hide some food in fresh bedding or in cardboard tubes for them to find.
Avoid seed mixes as rats tend to pick out the high-calorie seeds they like, and this can lead to obesity. Stale food should be removed. Fresh water should be available at all times in a high-quality water bottle (not a bowl). Check every day that the bottle is working. Do not get upset if you see your pet rat eating its own poop, this is perfectly normal behavior.
Many human foods are harmful to pet rats either because they contain substances that are toxic to them or because they are a choking hazard. For example, raw peanuts can cause red cell clumping, and licorice may cause neurological poisoning. Many sticky foods such as honey and mashed potatoes, can cause choking. Always check with your vet if you are not sure if a food is safe for your rat.
Spotting Something Is WrongPet rats are prone to several health conditions and diseases, including obesity. If you spot any of the following signs, you should take your rat to a vet.
Refusing food
Weight loss
Poop changes
Change in behavior
Overgrown teeth
Skin lumps
Hair loss
Sneezing
Breathing fast
Rats need 30-60 minutes of playtime outside of their cage each day.
©Slavenka Arandjelovic/Shutterstock.Com
The best part about having a pet rat is interacting with them or enjoying watching them play. They will need 30-60 minutes a day out of their enclosure. Many grow used to being handled, and you can encourage them in this with short, frequent interactions and treats. Use one hand to support their rib cage and back, and the other to scoop up their rear. Be careful because they can carry disease (wash your hands afterwards), and some will bite when startled. You don't have to spend a fortune on enrichment toys. Anything like cardboard boxes with holes in, toilet paper tubes, and paper bags will provide hours of entertainment for them and you. Never put your rat in an exercise ball, though. It may look super cute, but they can damage their little feet.
The post The Complete Guide to Caring for Pet Rats appeared first on A-Z Animals.
Comments
Post a Comment