What Can I Feed My Rat?
The most common question I get after anyone adopts rats with us is “What do rats eat?” The fast and easy answer is “Everything!” But that isn’t the whole truth.
When it comes to eating habits, rats are very much like babies, everything goes in the mouth. While rats are willing to eat everything from apples to jewelry, they need a responsible parent around to keep them from eating those things that are toxic or otherwise harmful. This is not an exhaustive list, by any means, however it can get you started on your nutritional journey with your rats. We welcome suggestions, corrections, and deletions if you have any for us.
SAFE FOODS
This list is adapted from the one found HERE.
Another good list that breaks things down by food type can be found HERE.
Sugary foods such as fruit should be given sparingly to avoid diarrhea and other health issues. I have given some recommended daily amounts/limits for each food. Please note that you should not exceed the recommended daily amount for the food group by giving the maximum amount of several choices from that group in a day. All recommended amounts are in addition to a nutritionally balanced base rat food, not meant to replace it. The totals below would not be enough nutrition for a single adult rat for a day. I also don’t recommend maxing out each food group every day. I’ve found that giving a wide variety of fresh, in season, foods I can enrich my rats lives, keep them healthy, and help my budget with feeding.
Fruits
Fruits can be given in moderation. Too many fruits can lead to loose stools and weight gain. Not to mention it is an unbalanced diet and won’t promote the longevity of your rat. I recommend keeping it around one tablespoon per day for an average adult rat. I will give examples of approximate amounts allowable for each fruit per day. You will have to figure out the amounts if you want to give more than 1 fruit per day though. I recommend that all fruits be fresh, not dried, canned, preserved, or otherwise processed. Many of the different preserving and drying techniques involve harmful chemicals or lots of sugar.
Vegetables
Vegetables are generally healthier than fruits because they have lower sugar content. Some vegetables may be safe for rats, but still not recommended because of certain side effects or low nutritional value. Generally, about 3 tablespoons of mixed veggie salad is the recommended amount for the average adult rat. I recommend that all veggies be fresh and not cooked, unless otherwise stated. Cooking can reduce the nutritional value and crunchy veggies are a great way to wear down teeth and satiate a rats need to gnaw.
Grains
Grains are the stereotypical fare of rodents and they are a great base for most diets. As much as a 1/4 cup of these daily is fine if your rat is active and healthy. Avoid choices that are low in nutritional value, such as bleached white rice or fortified noodles, instead opt for whole grains with less processing. Also, try to mix grains as much as you can for a variety of nutrients throughout the day.
Meat/Nuts/Seeds
Many people have a misconception that rats are herbivores, when in reality they are omnivores. Meat is definitely something they can have. Keep the fatty foods to a minimum, and try to offer choices that are leaner for a healthier rat. There are times when you might have a sick rat, though, and the fattier options can help to bulk them up. Around 2 tablespoons of protein rich foods are a good addition to normal diet.
Fatty Foods
These foods are a little more fatty and are good choices if you have an underweight rat that you need to bulk up. Feeding lots of “treats” is not a good way to get your rat to gain weight because their overall nutrition will be lacking and it will not promote them into getting better from whatever was ailing them. Always defer to a veterinarian as to the proper care of your animal.
“JUNK” FOODS
The list of junk foods is endless. A not so healthy treat, such as a lick off your ice cream or a bite off your pizza, every once in a while likely won’t kill your rat, but it isn’t healthy either. There are many people who feed only whole foods, organic, non-GMO, and/or vegan diets to their rats, and there are others who sneak in the occasional junk food - both types can boast happy healthy rats. Junk food should NOT be a primary source of food, and rats should not be fed leftovers as their only means of nutrition.
HARMFUL FOODS
When it comes to eating habits, rats are very much like babies, everything goes in the mouth. While rats are willing to eat everything from apples to jewelry, they need a responsible parent around to keep them from eating those things that are toxic or otherwise harmful. This is not an exhaustive list, by any means, however it can get you started on your nutritional journey with your rats. We welcome suggestions, corrections, and deletions if you have any for us.
SAFE FOODS
This list is adapted from the one found HERE.
Another good list that breaks things down by food type can be found HERE.
Sugary foods such as fruit should be given sparingly to avoid diarrhea and other health issues. I have given some recommended daily amounts/limits for each food. Please note that you should not exceed the recommended daily amount for the food group by giving the maximum amount of several choices from that group in a day. All recommended amounts are in addition to a nutritionally balanced base rat food, not meant to replace it. The totals below would not be enough nutrition for a single adult rat for a day. I also don’t recommend maxing out each food group every day. I’ve found that giving a wide variety of fresh, in season, foods I can enrich my rats lives, keep them healthy, and help my budget with feeding.
Fruits
Fruits can be given in moderation. Too many fruits can lead to loose stools and weight gain. Not to mention it is an unbalanced diet and won’t promote the longevity of your rat. I recommend keeping it around one tablespoon per day for an average adult rat. I will give examples of approximate amounts allowable for each fruit per day. You will have to figure out the amounts if you want to give more than 1 fruit per day though. I recommend that all fruits be fresh, not dried, canned, preserved, or otherwise processed. Many of the different preserving and drying techniques involve harmful chemicals or lots of sugar.
- Apples. Cut the apple up and make sure to remove all the seeds. Seeds are hazardous for rats. 3 - 1” cubes, or 1 slice if cut into 8 equal slices.
- Avocados. These are very fatty for rats and should be given in moderation. 2 - 1” cubes
- Bananas. Fresh, 2 - 1” slice.
- Berries. Blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, cranberries, raspberries, and strawberries. 2 tablespoon of berries, approximately 1 strawberry, 3 black, boysen, or raspberry, 5 blue or cranberries.
- Dried cranberries. If your rat is prone to urinary tract infections, this is great to add to its diet. Cranberries are good for keeping the urinary tract clean and healthy. 3 dried cranberries.
- Grapes. Purple grapes are believed to prevent cancer in rats. 3 large grapes.
- Kiwi. Scoop 1 tablespoon of kiwi out, 1 - 1/4” slice of a whole kiwi, or 2 - 1” cubes.
- Melon. Watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, etc. Do not feed the rind. 3 - 1” square.
- Papaya. 2 - 1” cubes.
- Pears. 3 - 1” cubes.
- Pomegranates. 2 tablespoons of the pips.
- Stone fruit. This would be fruit such as peaches, apricots, plums, cherries, etc. Do not feed the pit or seed. 3 - 1” squares.
Vegetables
Vegetables are generally healthier than fruits because they have lower sugar content. Some vegetables may be safe for rats, but still not recommended because of certain side effects or low nutritional value. Generally, about 3 tablespoons of mixed veggie salad is the recommended amount for the average adult rat. I recommend that all veggies be fresh and not cooked, unless otherwise stated. Cooking can reduce the nutritional value and crunchy veggies are a great way to wear down teeth and satiate a rats need to gnaw.
- Bell Pepper. Any color. Other non-spicy peppers are ok too. 3 tablespoons, 2-3 slices 1/4” each.
- Bok Choy. 1-2 leaves.
- Broccoli. Although rats can have broccoli, it can cause gas and smelly poops. I avoid it. 2-3 florettes.
- Carrots cooked or peeled and raw. I recommend peeling because there could be germs on the skin - they do grow in the ground. (I have a really hard time with scrubbing veggies because of my arthritis, so peeling is what I do.) About 3” of carrot for a carrot with 3/4” diameter. You can also use the peeler to shave off small slices.
- Cauliflower. 2-3 florettes.
- Celery. This vegetable is fine for rats, but it doesn't have very much nutritional value. I recommend only 1” of stalk if any.
- Corn. Corn is good for your rats if it is on the cob, but avoid dried corn because it could contain contaminants. A 3” section of corn on the cob, or a whole cob can be shared if you have 2-3 rats.
- Cucumber. This is one of my rats personal favorites. They love me when I show up with cucumbers. 4 - 1” slices
- Green beans. 3 full sized green beans.
- Kale. 1-2 leaves.
- Lettuce. Romaine, green leaf, or red leaf lettuce is better for your rat because it has more nutritional value than iceberg. 1-2 leaves.
- Parsley. 2 sprig.
- Peas. This would include sugar snap and snow peas. Peas have more sugars than some other veggies, so only 3 tablespoons.
- Potatoes. All varieties and yams too. Cook thoroughly and remove all skin and eyes. Good in chunks or mashed. 2 tablespoons.
- Pumpkins. Pumpkins are fine for rats to eat. However, the seeds are high in fat and should be fed to your pet in moderation. 4 - 1” chunks.
- Squash. Butternut, Acorn, Spaghetti, etc. Cook them thoroughly and do not feed the rind. They will also eat the seeds. 4 - 1” cubes.
Grains
Grains are the stereotypical fare of rodents and they are a great base for most diets. As much as a 1/4 cup of these daily is fine if your rat is active and healthy. Avoid choices that are low in nutritional value, such as bleached white rice or fortified noodles, instead opt for whole grains with less processing. Also, try to mix grains as much as you can for a variety of nutrients throughout the day.
- Bread. Fresh bread can be a choking hazard, but if you leave a slice out overnight until it is dry and hard, it makes a good snack. I recommend cutting it into smaller pieces first as well. Use healthy whole grain or sprouted breads with nuts and seeds. 1/2 slice.
- Dry cereal. Cheerios, Rice Crispies, bran flakes, Chex, or shredded wheat are great for feeding your rat. However, be careful about feeding any cereal that contains a large amount of sugar. Always check labels. 1/4 cup.
- Rolled oats. Any type of oats is fine as long as it does not contain any sugar, such as many granolas. 1/4 cup.
- Pasta. Rats can have cooked or dried pasta. My rats find tri-colored spirals that have a spinach or tomato flavor extra tasty. Dried pasta is good because it keeps their teeth worn down. 1/4 cup.
- Rice. Brown rice is especially good for your rat, white lacks nutrition and is more a treat. Mine will only eat it cooked, but it can be served either way like pasta. 1/8 cup.
Meat/Nuts/Seeds
Many people have a misconception that rats are herbivores, when in reality they are omnivores. Meat is definitely something they can have. Keep the fatty foods to a minimum, and try to offer choices that are leaner for a healthier rat. There are times when you might have a sick rat, though, and the fattier options can help to bulk them up. Around 2 tablespoons of protein rich foods are a good addition to normal diet.
- Beans. Beans must be cooked before serving. 2 tablespoons cooked.
- Meat. Chicken is the healthiest meat for your rat, but beef is okay if the fat is kept to a minimum. Other meats such as turkey, pork, tuna, or fish are okay too. Select meats that are lower in fat and cholesterol. Meat should be unseasoned as certain seasonings and marinades can have harmful ingredients. 2 - 1” chunks.
- Nuts. Cashews, walnuts, almonds, and pecans. All nuts should be roasted, but not salted. 2 tablespoons of nuts.
- Chicken bones. Surprisingly, these are not only healthy for rats but also good chew toys. Next time you have chicken for dinner, save the bones. 1 small bone.
- Dog/cat food. Make sure to use a good quality or this goes to the junk food section. 2 tablespoons.
- Mealworms. 2-3 dried mealworms.
- Eggs. The protein is great for rats, especially pregnant rats. They can be served many ways - boiled, scrambled, etc. My rats tend to pick out only the yolk if I boil them, so I only serve scrambled. 1 scrambled or boiled egg.
- Soy products. Soy nuts are good for rats, but make sure they are roasted and unsalted. Soy products are high in protein and have cancer-preventing agents. Other good soy products include soy milk, soy yogurt, soy tofu, and soy crumbles. 2 tablespoons.
- Sunflower seeds. Make sure that the seeds are unsalted. You can buy these cheaply in bulk and add some to your rat's cage every once in a while for a healthy snack. 2 tablespoons.
Fatty Foods
These foods are a little more fatty and are good choices if you have an underweight rat that you need to bulk up. Feeding lots of “treats” is not a good way to get your rat to gain weight because their overall nutrition will be lacking and it will not promote them into getting better from whatever was ailing them. Always defer to a veterinarian as to the proper care of your animal.
- Avocado
- Beef
- Chicken skin
- Sunflower seeds
- Cashews
- Pumpkin
- Squash
“JUNK” FOODS
The list of junk foods is endless. A not so healthy treat, such as a lick off your ice cream or a bite off your pizza, every once in a while likely won’t kill your rat, but it isn’t healthy either. There are many people who feed only whole foods, organic, non-GMO, and/or vegan diets to their rats, and there are others who sneak in the occasional junk food - both types can boast happy healthy rats. Junk food should NOT be a primary source of food, and rats should not be fed leftovers as their only means of nutrition.
- Apple sauce and Baby food. Packaged or processed foods like applesauce or baby food should be checked for sugar and preservative content as well. These can be healthy, but a lot are not.
- Crackers. Most contain a lot of salt, but rats will love them as a special treat once in a while.
- Dairy foods. Cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, and yogurt. Some rats may be lactose intolerant, so offer in very small amounts at first if you are not sure. Dairy should be given sparingly and makes a good treat for training. I personally recommend strawberry yogurt for giving with medicine. My rats adore it!
- Lunch meats. Lunch meat contains preservatives that may be harmful to your rat as well as a high amount of sodium and fat.
- Mushrooms. These are only okay for your rat if they are cooked and should be fed in moderation.
- Popcorn. It should be unsalted and unbuttered if possible.
- Small dog treats. Check ingredient lists carefully for any animal food that is not specifically intended for rats. They may contain one or more of the foods on the “Harmful Foods” list.
- Yogurt covered pretzels.
- Yogurt drops. Most rats absolutely love these, but nearly all brands list sugar as the first ingredient. There are some baby food ones that are healthier and have better ingredients.
HARMFUL FOODS
- Apple seeds. Apple seeds have a small amount of cyanide in them that can be harmful for rats.
- Raw Artichokes. This vegetable inhibits protein digestion in rats.
- Avocado skin.
- Raw beans. Destroys vitamin A and enzymes that rats need to digest protein and starches. This can cause red blood cells to clump and is a hazard for rats.
- Beet tops. These can cause urinary tract problems and stones in the kidneys and bladder due to their extremely high levels of oxalates.
- Blue cheese. The mold that is used to make blue cheese is toxic to rats.
- Raw Brussels sprouts. These can destroy thiamin.
- Carbonated drinks. Rats can’t burp, which is why they should never drink carbonated drinks.
- Caffeinated drinks. Drinks containing high amounts of sugar are bad for your rats.
- Candy. Like chocolate, candy is too sugary. Rats can have problems with digesting these foods.
- Chocolate. This is also bad for rats because of the high fat and sugar content. I’ve heard that some owners feed dark chocolate to their rats once in a great while without problems. However, I just avoid chocolate altogether.
- Dried corn. While fresh corn is okay, dried corn is not. This is because it contains fungal contaminates that can lead to liver cancer in rats.
- Green bananas. While regular bananas are okay, green bananas inhibit starch digestion enzymes.
- Green potato skins and eyes. These contain solanine, a toxin for rats.
- Hamster food. Hamster food is high in fat.
- Licorice. This food is suspected to cause neurological poisoning in rats.
- Mango. This fruit contains d-limonene and can cause kidney cancer in male rats.
- Moldy foods. Some people think that just because rats are stereotyped as scavengers, they can eat moldy food. However, mold and bacteria can be extremely toxic to rats, just as they can be to humans.
- Raw onions. These can cause anemia and give rats upset stomachs.
- Oranges. Both the outer and the white parts of orange peels can be harmful for male rats. I’ve heard that it seems okay for females, but I would just avoid oranges to be on the safe side.
- Orange juice. Orange juice contains d-limonene, which can cause kidney cancer in male rats.
- Peanuts. These have been found to have anti-nutrients that, like raw dried beans, will destroy vitamin A and certain enzymes that rats need to break down proteins and starches. This will then cause red blood cells to clump together.
- Poppy seeds. While it is unknown why, poppy seeds seem to cause rats to become sick and sometimes even die.
- Potato eyes and skins.
- Raw red cabbage. Raw red cabbage destroys thiamin.
- Rhubarb. Rhubarb contains toxic amounts of oxalates.
- Spinach. Due to the high levels of oxalates, spinach can cause urinary tract problems and stones in the bladder and kidneys.
- Sweet feed. This is feed made for horses and is not good for rats because there is too much corn and molasses in it.
- Raw sweet potato. Since sweet potatoes are potatoes, people think they are okay to feed to their rats. However, raw sweet potatoes recently have been found to have compounds that will form cyanide in rat's stomachs.
- Raw bulk tofu. The bulk unpackaged tofu contains bacteria and is unsafe.
- Wild insects. These should never be fed to your rat because they can carry diseases and internal parasites. I’ve heard that cooked insects and insects bought from a store is okay.
Last Updated: 4/24/2021 (c) 2021 Squeakin' Pups All rights reserved. Do not copy, share, or distribute without written permission.