Pet rats are omnivorous animals that, while in the wild, feed on cereals, grains and seeds, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and proteins of animal origin. This is an advantage to feed the rats that we have in captivity since they accept a large amount of food. Rats have a membrane in their esophagus that prevents them from vomiting. This makes it difficult for them to try new foods so we have to be patient with them.
The ideal is to feed the pet rat at night, since they are nocturnal animals. However, if for some reason we cannot and we feed them during the day, they will end up getting used to it. We must feed these rodents a couple of times a day since they are animals very prone to obesity.
We also have to avoid sweet, greasy, or gas-inducing foods as they cannot burp. Acidic foods like kiwi or citrus are also not suitable. The ideal as in all pets, especially for your pet rat is a varied and balanced diet. It goes without saying that you should always have water.
Here is a list of the best foods for a good pet rat diet:
- Cereals and nuts: Rice, birdseed, millet.
- Fruit and vegetables: Apple, pear, cherry, grape, banana, cooked potato, broccoli, carrot, peas or endive.
- Protein: Cooked chicken or beef, liver or kidney, dog food, worms and insects, cooked soybeans.
- Treats: Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, unsalted almonds.
By Julija
We can also give it some bread or yogurt and especially if the rat is pregnant we must provide it with a lot of protein. After following these tips, our pet rat will be perfectly fed and will have a beautiful coat.
