DIET

Rat Diet

Although their diets are not particularly specialized, rats feed primarily upon foods rich in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are instrumental in rat growth and development, as well as in reproduction. However, not all carbohydrates can be ingested by rats; fructose and sucrose can lead to several abnormalities, while glucose and glucose-based polymers are preferred carbohydrate sources.

^{Norway Rat on Kitchen Counter}

The rat’s need for protein is lower than that of most other mammals. Some specimens refuse to consume foods high protein. Oats, wheat and tree bark provide protein to the rat’s diet, as do nuts. Rats obtain vitamins and nutrients from vegetables and fruits such as watermelon, blueberries, plums and grapes.