Diet
A well-balanced diet is key to keeping rats healthy and active.
Commercial Rat Food (Pellets or Mixes)
Pellets - High-quality, nutritionally balanced rat food is a great base for your pet rat's diet. Always buy pellets that are specifically designed for rats. Those will provide the necessary vitamins, minerals, and protein.
Rat Mixes - Some owners prefer feeding their rats a mix of seeds, grains, and dried fruits and vegetables. Do make sure the mix is formulated for rats, not for other small animals.
Fresh Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables - Offer a variety of fresh vegetables. Like broccoli, carrots, cucumber, peas and sweet pepper. Dark leafy greens spinach are good, but only in moderation because of their oxalate content.
Fruits - Fresh fruit can be a tasty treat for rats. Do offer it in moderation due to its sugar content. Good choices are apples, bananas, strawberries and melons. Avoid citrus fruits like oranges or lemons, which can be too acidic.
Other foods
Protein-Rich Foods - Rats are omnivores. They require some good protein like cooked eggs, cooked chicken or turkey (without seasoning) and cheese (small amounts)
Grains and Carbohydrates
Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and (dried) whole wheat pasta are healthy sources of carbohydrates and fiber for rats.
Avoid Toxic Foods
Some foods are toxic or harmful to rats. And should be avoided.
Avoid foods like chocolate, caffeinated beverages, raw potatoes, alcohol and processed junk food
Fresh Water
Always provide fresh, clean water. Preferably in a hanging drinking bottle. Or a bowl if necessary. Make sure the water is changed daily.
Occasional Treats
You can offer your rat occasional treats like a small amount of nuts (unsalted, unseasoned), unsweetened whole-grain cereals or plain popcorn (without salt, sugar or butter)
*The photo shows Science selective rat food
