Rats - Clever pack animals with a strong urge to move
Species-appropriate husbandry – How to make them feel comfortable
Living in a Group
Rats are not loners. A group of at least three animals is optimal – ideally of the same sex or with neutered males.
Multi-Story Enclosures with Structure
A tower enclosure from 80 × 50 × 120 cm for three animals offers enough space. Important: sleeping houses, tunnels, climbing elements, and retreats.
Free Range for Explorers
At least two hours of secured free range in the room daily – varied and safely designed.
Always Something to Do
Hammocks, climbing ropes, gnawing material, and activity toys ensure physical and mental stimulation.
Cleanliness & Hygiene
🧼 Weekly change
👃 Familiar smell
Rats are clean animals with a fine sense of smell. A well-thought-out cleaning plan helps to avoid diseases and maintain the enclosure as a familiar habitat – without stressing the animals through excessive rearranging.
Keep Clean Regularly
Moist litter and dirty spots should be removed daily – especially in the areas where the animals sleep and eat. This keeps the enclosure hygienically clean.
Complete Renewal
Replace the entire substrate once a week. You can mix in some old litter so that the familiar smells are retained.
Smell as Orientation
Rats rely heavily on smells. A careful handling of the litter reduces stress and promotes stable social behavior.
Nutrition
🍎 Fruit in moderation
🥚 Animal protein
Rats are omnivores with a preference for plant-based food. A balanced mixture of grains, vegetables, some fruit, and occasionally animal protein (e.g., boiled egg or mealworms) forms the basis. Fresh water must be available at all times.
Colorful Basic Mixture
Rats are omnivores. The basis of a balanced and healthy diet is grains, vegetables, and dried herbs.
Sweets Only Rarely
Small amounts of fruit can be fed occasionally. Too much sugar puts a strain on the organism and should therefore be avoided.
Do Not Forget Protein
Animal protein, for example in the form of boiled egg or mealworms, may be fed regularly. It strengthens the organism and keeps the animals fit.
Nutrition
Activity
🛏️ Hammocks & hiding places
🎲 Intelligence games
Climbing frames, ropes, cardboard tubes, hammocks, and food games provide variety. Especially important: daily free range in a secured area – ideally with stimuli such as boxes, fabric tunnels, or intelligence toys.
Active Through Movement
Rats are very skilled climbers. Frames, ropes, and tubes promote their mobility and offer them varied employment opportunities.
Cozy Retreats
Hammocks and hiding places are essential. They offer security and peace and promote social behavior within the group.
Stay Smart by Playing
Food games, boxes, and fabric tunnels keep rats mentally fit. Intelligence toys strengthen their curiosity and provide daily variety.
