Introduced into Europe in the Middle Ages, then used as a laboratory animal, the rat is today making its appearance in homes as an increasingly popular pet, especially among pre-teens and teenagers, for whom it makes a loyal and adorable companion. What is more, it tames easily, it is sociable and therefore enjoys contact with humans.
Living environment:
- It is a gregarious, rather nocturnal animal, which becomes torpid below 10 degrees. It will prefer living in a group, or as a pair, rather than on its own.
- A spacious cage must be devoted to them (50x80x40 cm is a strict minimum for one or two specimens). It should be placed in a quiet spot sheltered from draughts.
- Bedding: droppings should be removed daily. Once a week, it is advisable to empty everything out and disinfect with bleach, then rinse thoroughly and dry (the rat urinates frequently).
- Substrate: fir shavings, hemp bedding, hay, straw.
- Avoid sawdust, which is far too dusty.
Diet:
- An omnivorous rodent that consumes 30 to 40 g of food per day.
- A complete mix or commercial rodent pellets with 20-27% protein, or a home-prepared ration with seeds, green vegetables, carrots, apples, meat.
- Avoid sweets and excess treats, as the rat has a strong tendency towards obesity!
- Daily water consumption of between 10 and 15 ml per 100 grams of body weight.
Care:
No particular care needed.
Common diseases
The rat is frequently seen for tumours, respiratory problems and skin problems.
The rat often develops lumps under the skin (tumours), in particular mammary tumours in the female. They grow larger over time: the earlier they are seen, the better. Feel over your rat regularly.
Its airways are fragile. Repeated sneezing, or wheezing or noisy breathing, are signs not to be overlooked.
A red secretion around the eyes or nose is not blood: it is often a sign of stress or illness (porphyrin) that warrants an opinion. The skin can also be affected by parasites (mange, ringworm), with itching and hair loss.
When to see a vet promptly a lump under the skin, repeated sneezing, a red secretion around the eyes or nose, itching or hair loss.
When to see a vet urgently laboured or noisy breathing at rest, a listless animal that stops eating.
The veterinarian's advice feel regularly over your rat's whole body: spotting a lump early makes it easier to act.
Key points observe your rat every day so as not to miss a problem. This information does not replace a consultation.