Well, now you have decided to bring a rats or mice in your family. Obviously you are reading this article because you wants to make sure to provide the best care to your cute little pets. They are low – maintainence animals, and you have probably decided to buy them because it requires less – maintenance, do not make noises as other pets would do like dogs or cats, takes less space. But you must keep in mind that if they are low – maintenance pets, that does not mean they do not need any maintenance at all. The following are the main aspects that you need to consider :-
1. NUTRITION :-
The good quality food and fresh clean water should be available to your pet for all the time. An improper diet is the leading cause of many common ailments in them. A poor diet can result in health problems like diarrhea, obesity, or overgrown teeth. You should know the nutritional needs of your rats and mice which is very important. You cannot feed them whatever food you have. Their diets are very specific and like any other pets, they require some certain nutrients. Although they are two different species, but their nutritional needs are very much same. A good commercial rodent food is a good start for your mice and rats. These foods can be available in most of the pet stores and can come in pellet, seed mix – form or block. While choosing a commercial food for your pet, you need to pay certain attention towards some nutritional facts. In the case of mice’s nutritional requirements, they need 18% of fibre 16% of protein to stay healthy, fat content can also be included not more than 4%. On the other hand, rats requires more fibre and less fat. In addition to the commercial food, you can give them a daily treat in the form of fruits and vegetables like peas, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, bannanas or apples. These treats should be given in small amount in order to avoid any health problems like obesity, so be careful. Chocolate, cabbage, beans, corns, peanuts or onions should also be avoid as these can be very harmful for your small pets.
2. HOUSING :-
There are several types of cages available in the market for them. Many sellers supply all the necessary items along within the cages like exercise wheels, nest boxes and tunnels. These things will help your pet to stay healthy, mentally as well as physically. The cage which has rounded corners are the most preferred type of cage as it discourages the chewing. They easily chew on thin plastics and woods so recommended cage materials are stainless steel, wire, glass and thick plastic. Cages and the accessories should be clean atleast once a week with hot and soapy water.
3. HANDLING :-
Pet rodents can become biddable and seldom bite if they are accustomed to handling and properly restrained. You should be careful if you are approaching a frightened pet. Also, it will be best if you do not disturb a sleeping rat or mouse as they can become grumpy or cranky when they will be awake. Both rats and mice can be picked up easily by cupped hands or scooping them into a can. You can also picked up mice by holding the base of his tail, but be careful, otherwise, you may injure him. You can do this way in case of rats too. You must keep in mind the point that never never ever picked up them by pulling the tip of their tail as the skin can may strip off the tail.
4. EXERCISE AND PLAY :-
Rats and mice are highly – intelligent rodents so if you do not provide him enough toys or exercise, otherwise, they will get soon bored. While you are away, you can provide exercise wheels and toys for activity. Chew toys are also a good option as it provides activity and gnawing exercise. When you are at home, spend some time with them, atleast one or half an hour and interact with them outside the cage. You can also teach him to respond on their names and come to you when you called.
5. VISIT TO VET CARE :-
If you feels that your pet is sick then you should take him to the vet care immediately. You cannot risk his life by thinking that he will get soon on himself. If you cannot afford the costs of vet – care then you should not have any pets.
I hope now you have understand that even low – maintenance animals can be a lot of hard work but you love them so obviously you will do everything in order to make them stay fit and healthy.
You have to do all these steps if you want your rats and mice to live longer, happier and healthier life.