Dumbo rats, like all domesticated fancy rats, are omnivores with specific dietary needs that balance protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Feeding them properly isn’t just about keeping them full—it’s about supporting their immune system, preventing obesity, and enriching their lives through variety and foraging.
🧬 The Foundation: Commercial Rat Pellets
The core of a dumbo rat’s diet should be a high-quality commercial rat pellet. These are specially formulated to meet their nutritional needs and prevent selective feeding (where rats pick out only the tastiest bits and leave the rest). Look for pellets with:
- 14–18% protein
- 4–6% fat
- No added sugars or artificial dyes
Avoid food mixes meant for hamsters, guinea pigs, or rabbits—they don’t contain the right nutrients for rats.
🥦 Fresh Foods: Fruits, Veggies & More
Rats thrive on variety. Supplement their pellets with small portions of:
- Vegetables: Broccoli, kale, carrots, peas, cucumber, bell pepper
- Fruits (in moderation): Apple (no seeds), banana, berries, melon
- Proteins: Cooked egg, plain chicken, tofu, lentils
- Grains: Brown rice, oats, whole wheat pasta
Introduce new foods slowly and in small amounts to avoid digestive upset.
🚫 Foods to Avoid
Some foods are toxic or harmful to rats. Never feed:
- Onion, garlic, leeks
- Citrus fruits (especially for males)
- Grapes and raisins
- Rhubarb
- Chocolate
- Walnuts
- Raw beans or sweet potato
- Sugary or fatty human snacks
🧠 Foraging & Enrichment
Rats are natural foragers. Scatter food in bedding, hide treats in cardboard tubes, or use puzzle feeders to encourage mental stimulation. This mimics wild behavior and keeps them active.
🧃 Water
Always provide fresh, clean water in a bottle (not a bowl, which can get contaminated). Check bottles daily for blockages and refill twice a day.
🧂 Treats & Training
Use small bits of cooked pasta, unsweetened cereal, or a dab of baby food as training rewards. Treats should make up no more than 5–10% of their diet.
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