Rat Information
The internet is full of information regarding rat care, but not all information is accurate. Be sure to check your sources to make sure that they are true. Internet resources should, under no circumstances, be a substitute for veterinary care.
Habitats
No cage can be too large, but cages can be too small. Rats need at least 2 1/2 cubic feet of living space per rat. Tanks are bad for rats, and should only be used for mothers and babies. Hamster cages are also unsuitable. Use a rat cage calculator to see how many rats can fit comfortably in a cage. Some cages that are popular among rat owners include Feisty Ferrets, Ferret Nations, Critter Nations, and Martin Cages.
Rats should never be housed with pine or cedar bedding, as the phenols in these soft woods are toxic. Aspen, recycled paper such as Yesterday's news, CareFresh, or fleece are good options. Litter boxes can be used in conjunction with regular bedding.
Rats are not meant to interact with animals of other species, regardless of what the other animal may be. Rats can see other small animals as intruders or prey.
In order to house rats together, they must be introduced properly. Rats require careful introductions, which can take weeks if done correctly. Babies should not be introduced to adults until they are at least 8 to 10 weeks old. A baby cannot defend themselves against an adult until this age, and can be mistaken for mice or other animals if too young.
Males and Females should be separated by the age of 5 weeks old as they can reproduce with large litters!
Rats should never be housed with pine or cedar bedding, as the phenols in these soft woods are toxic. Aspen, recycled paper such as Yesterday's news, CareFresh, or fleece are good options. Litter boxes can be used in conjunction with regular bedding.
Rats are not meant to interact with animals of other species, regardless of what the other animal may be. Rats can see other small animals as intruders or prey.
In order to house rats together, they must be introduced properly. Rats require careful introductions, which can take weeks if done correctly. Babies should not be introduced to adults until they are at least 8 to 10 weeks old. A baby cannot defend themselves against an adult until this age, and can be mistaken for mice or other animals if too young.
Males and Females should be separated by the age of 5 weeks old as they can reproduce with large litters!
Nutrition & Diet
A good base lab block such as Native Earth, Harlan Teklad, Mazuri, or Oxbow Regal Rat should be the staple of a rat's diet. Rats also require supplementary treats on a daily basis, such as fruits and vegetables.
Recommended Veterinarians in Johnson City, TN
Robinsons Animal Hospital
202 W Watauga Ave. and 3026 Peoples St.
423- 218-1305
202 W Watauga Ave. and 3026 Peoples St.
423- 218-1305