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General
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Rats need daily attention to become trusting and easy to
handle. Offering food from your hand, and avoiding loud
noises and sudden movements will help to build confidence
and soon your rat will enjoy being held. At least 1 hour a
day of exercise outside the cage is essential for optimal
health, and great fun for the whole family!
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Housing
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Choose as large a cage as possible for your rats,
ideally 18 in X 36 in with several levels and room for
toys such as a solid exercise wheel, ladders, tubes and
a hammock. The floor should be solid, as wire can injure
rats' feet. Place the cage out of direct sunlight and
drafts, in an area with family activity. Cover the floor
with safe bedding such as Carefresh or Aspen shavings.
For your rats' comfort add a nest box filled with soft
shredded paper.
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Diet
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A healthy diet consists of 80% dry food (lab blocks or a
commercial mix such as Reggie Rat) and 20% from a variety
of fresh vegetables and fruit. Dry food should always be
available in a dish or food hopper. Remember to provide a
sipper bottle refilled with fresh water daily. Healthy
treats can be offered, in moderation.
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Cleaning
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Scoop soiled areas as needed. Remove all bedding and wash
the entire cage, food bowls, and water bottle weekly. Always
rinse and dry the cage thoroughly before adding fresh bedding.
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Health
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Find an exotics veterinarian experienced in treating rats before
you have an emergency. Be observant and consult your vet if you
notice signs of illness or injury such as: discharge from the
eyes or nose; diarrhea; sneezing, wheezing, monkey-like sounds,
or other noisy breathing; head tilting; lumps or bumps; excessive
scratching; difficulty urinating or blood in urine.
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Warnings
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Pine and cedar shavings contain harmful oils and should
never be used for rats.
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Fertility
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Rats can reach sexual maturity at five weeks old. It's important
that they are accurately sexed and separated before 5 weeks of
age to prevent health risks and unwanted babies.
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