Pet care

Have you ever wondered how wild rats differ from pet rats? These small rodents are often underrated, yet they are remarkably interesting and varied. In this article we take a closer look at their habits, their diet and their relationship with people. You will learn why wild rats are so independent and what makes pet rats such good company for humans. Read on to discover the fascinating world of these intelligent creatures!

• Wild and pet rats differ in lifestyle and in how they relate to people. Wild rats are more independent, while pet rats bond with humans easily.
• A pet rat’s diet should be rich in grains, vegetables, fruit and animal protein such as cooked chicken or turkey.
• Vegetables are an essential part of a rat’s diet, providing vital vitamins and minerals. Carrot, parsley and broccoli are excellent choices.
• Fruit can be a tasty addition to a rat’s diet, but avoid citrus fruit and always remove the pips from apples.
• Green snacks such as grass or dandelion enrich a rat’s diet with fibre and other nutrients.
• Pet rats can eat meat, but it should be lean and well cooked. Avoid seasoned or fried meat.
• Never give rats sweets, caffeine, avocado, citrus fruit or fruit pips and stones, as these are harmful to them.
• Rats need the company of other rats and plenty of exercise. Toys and an obstacle course keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Wild rats versus pet rats

Rats are fascinating creatures that fall into two main categories: wild and domesticated. Wild rats are known for living close to human settlements, where food is easy to find. Their diet is extremely varied and includes anything they come across: scraps, seeds, fruit and even meat. Wild rats are more independent and do not form bonds with people.

By contrast, pet rats, which are descended from laboratory rats, and are friendlier and quicker to bond with humans. They are hardier than their wild cousins and live around 3 years on average, which is half as long again as a wild rat. The nutritional needs of pet rats are similar to those of wild rats, although they eat less meat. Their diet should be rich in:

• Grains – such as wheat or oats.
• Raw vegetables – carrot, parsley or broccoli.
• Fruit – apples (without pips), pears.
• Seeds and meat – cooked chicken as a source of animal protein.

With the right diet and care, pet rats can enjoy good health and a long life. It is also important to give them company and exercise, both of which have a positive effect on their wellbeing.

What do pet rats eat?

Pet rats are endearing, intelligent creatures that need a properly balanced diet to stay healthy and full of energy. The foundation of their diet is grain, which supplies essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein and minerals. Choose grain mixes containing wheat, oats or barley. Rats also love vegetables and fruit, which are a source of vitamins and minerals. You can offer them carrot, parsley or apples (without the pips, of course). Just remember to steer clear of citrus fruit and low-quality supermarket products.

A rat’s diet should also be topped up with seeds and meat. Sunflower or pumpkin seeds provide healthy fats, while cooked chicken or turkey supplies the animal protein they need. Pay attention to the quality of the food: specialist rat foods are best, as they are nutrient-rich and free of artificial additives. Avoid cheap supermarket products, which may not meet your pet’s nutritional needs. Here is a list of the basic components of a rat’s diet:

• Grains: wheat, oats, barley
• Vegetables: carrot, parsley, broccoli
• Fruit: apples (without pips), pears
• Seeds: sunflower, pumpkin
• Meat: cooked chicken, turkey

Remember to provide fresh water every day and keep food and water bowls clean. That way your rat can enjoy full health and energy day after day!

Vegetables in a rat’s diet

Vegetables play an important role in a rat’s diet, supplying essential vitamins and minerals. Raw vegetables are particularly valuable because they retain most of their nutrients. It is worth offering rats a variety of vegetables regularly to enrich their daily menu and keep them healthy and content. Here are a few examples of vegetables that are safe for rats:

• Carrot – rich in beta-carotene, supports eye and skin health.
• Parsley – a source of vitamin C and iron, supports the immune system.
• Broccoli – contains fibre and vitamins K and C, good for digestion.

Rats take to fresh vegetables with enthusiasm, which makes them an excellent way to vary the diet. It is important, however, to avoid vegetables contaminated with pesticides or from unreliable sources. Organic or home-grown produce is best. Always wash raw vegetables thoroughly before serving. Including them regularly in a rat’s diet not only provides valuable nutrients but also helps the animal maintain a healthy weight and condition.

Fruit in a rat’s diet

Fruit is a great way to add variety to a rat’s diet and supplies essential vitamins and minerals. Bear in mind, though, that not all fruit is safe for these rodents. You can safely offer your pet fruit such as apples, but be sure to remove the pips, which are poisonous. Other recommended fruits include pears and grapes. These treats not only enrich a rat’s diet but also give it a great deal of pleasure at mealtimes.

Choose fruit with care, however. Avoid citrus fruit, which can be harmful to a rat’s health. Pips and stones should also be removed, as they contain substances that are toxic to rodents. Here is a list of fruit that is safe for rats:

• Apples (without pips)
• Pears
• Grapes
• Bananas
• Melon

Remember that fruit should only be a supplement to a balanced diet based on grains and vegetables. That way you will keep your rat healthy and happy.

Green snacks for rats

Introducing green snacks is a great way to add variety to your rat’s daily menu. Green plants such as grass, ribwort plantain and dandelion provide many valuable nutrients that support your pet’s health and immunity. Grass is rich in fibre, which helps the digestive system work properly. Ribwort plantain strengthens the immune system, while dandelion roots help wear down the teeth, which in rats keep growing throughout their lives.

When offering green snacks, keep a few rules in mind. Above all, make sure the plants are free of pollutants and pesticides. It is best to pick them well away from roads and busy areas. Here are a few ideas for green snacks for rats:

• Grass – an excellent source of fibre.
• Ribwort plantain – boosts immunity.
• Dandelion – helps wear down the teeth.
• Chamomile – has a calming effect.
• Nettle – rich in vitamins and minerals.

Green snacks should be treated as a supplement to a grain-based diet, not its foundation. This gives your rodent a variety of flavours and nutrients, which benefits both its health and its wellbeing.

Can a pet rat eat meat?

Pet rats are omnivorous rodents and need a varied diet in which animal protein plays an important part. This protein is essential for the proper functioning of a rat’s body, supporting growth and tissue repair. In the wild, rats often seek out sources of animal protein, so it is worth including it in your pet’s diet too. You can give your rat cooked meat such as chicken or turkey. It is important that the meat is lean and thoroughly cooked to keep your little friend safe and healthy.

It is also worth looking at the ready-made foods on the market, which often contain added animal protein. These foods are carefully balanced and can be an excellent complement to a rat’s daily diet. When choosing one, make sure the ingredients are suitable and that it comes from a reputable manufacturer. Here are a few tips on feeding meat to rats:

• Avoid seasoned or fried meat.
• Offer meat in small amounts as a supplement to the diet.
• Always check that the product is fresh and of good quality.

With the right approach to feeding, you can give your pet a healthy, balanced diet that supports its development and wellbeing.

What can’t rats eat?

Although rats are omnivores, they cannot eat everything. There is a list of foods that are harmful and even dangerous to them. First and foremost, never give them sweets. The sugar in these products can lead to obesity and dental problems. Caffeine is also dangerous for rats, as it can cause overstimulation and heart problems. Another food to avoid is avocado. It contains persin, which is toxic to many animals, rats included.

There are other foods that can harm our little friends too. Rats should not eat citrus fruit, which can cause stomach upsets. Also avoid giving them fruit pips and stones, which often contain potassium cyanide, an extremely harmful substance. Here is a list of foods to avoid:

• Sweets
• Caffeine
• Avocado
• Citrus fruit
• Fruit pips and stones

Let’s look after our rats’ health by avoiding these dangerous foods and giving them a proper diet full of valuable nutrients.

A rat does not live by food alone

Rats are extremely sociable creatures that need not only a proper diet but also closeness and physical activity. In the wild they live in groups, building relationships and spending time together. So if you are planning to bring a rat home, consider getting two. A second rat will not only meet their social needs but also prevent the loneliness that can lead to health problems.

Providing good living conditions is not just a matter of diet and space, but also of mental and physical stimulation. Rats love to play and explore, so it is worth investing in a variety of toys and an obstacle course. You can build an agility course for your pet yourself or use ready-made options available in pet shops. Keep a few key things in mind:

• Toys: a variety of objects to chew and climb on.
• Company: a second rat as a playmate.
• Exercise: daily play sessions outside the cage.

This will keep your rodent healthy in both body and mind. Remember that rats are intelligent animals that need your attention and affection just as much as the best food.

Summary

Rats are remarkably interesting creatures that can be divided into two main groups: wild and domesticated. Wild rats live close to human settlements, where they easily find food such as scraps and seeds. They are more independent and do not form bonds with people. Pet rats, descended from laboratory rats, are friendlier and bond with humans more readily. Their diet is similar to that of their wild cousins, but they eat less meat and live longer.

Grains, vegetables and fruit play an important role in a pet rat’s diet. Raw vegetables are particularly valuable, supplying essential vitamins and minerals. Fruit also enriches the diet, but citrus fruit and pips should be avoided. Green snacks such as grass or dandelion make an excellent addition to the menu. Meat is another important element of a rat’s diet, providing animal protein. It is essential, however, to avoid foods that are harmful to rats, such as sweets and caffeine.

Frequently asked questions

How does the behaviour of wild rats differ from that of pet rats?

Wild rats are more independent and avoid contact with people, whereas pet rats are friendly and bond with humans easily. Wild rats live near human settlements, where they forage for food, while pet rats are tamer and adapted to life in the home.

Do pet rats need the company of other rats?

Yes, pet rats are highly sociable and are happiest in a group. Having a second rat as a companion can prevent loneliness and improve their wellbeing. Play and social interaction are very important to them.

What toys are suitable for pet rats?

Rats love toys that stimulate their minds and encourage physical activity. You can provide a variety of objects to chew and climb on, as well as an obstacle course. Toys such as tunnels, exercise wheels and small balls will make a great addition to their daily lives.

Do pet rats have any special health needs?

Pet rats need regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their health. It is also important to keep the cage clean and provide a nutrient-rich diet. Regular exercise and mental stimulation also contribute to their wellbeing.

How often should I feed my pet rat?

Rats should have constant access to fresh food and water. It is recommended to feed them twice a day, morning and evening. Remember not to overfeed your pet, though, and adjust the amount of food to its needs and activity level.

Can I give my rat leftovers from dinner?

Giving rats leftovers from dinner is not recommended, as they may contain seasonings or ingredients that are harmful to rodents. It is better to stick to specialist rat food along with fresh vegetables and fruit that are suitable for rats.

What should a rat’s cage be like?

A rat’s cage should be spacious, well ventilated and equipped with a variety of items for play and rest. It is important to clean the cage regularly and provide soft bedding that is comfortable for the animal.

Can I teach my rat tricks?

Yes, rats are intelligent animals and can be taught a variety of tricks using positive reinforcement. Patience and treats as rewards will help them learn simple commands and tricks.

Endoscopy in dogs and cats: modern diagnostics in veterinary medicine

Endoscopy is a diagnostic technique that is becoming increasingly popular in veterinary medicine. It allows the inside of an animal’s body to be examined in detail without the need for complex, invasive surgery.  At Zviropolis Veterinary Clinic, endoscopic examinations are carried out by qualified veterinarians!

What does an endoscopic examination involve?

1. Inserting the endoscope: the endoscope is introduced through the animal’s natural openings, such as the mouth, oesophagus, stomach, intestines or nose.  In some cases it may also be inserted through small incisions in the skin.
2. Diagnosis: during endoscopy the veterinarian can diagnose a range of conditions, such as:
   • Diseases of the digestive system (e.g. ulcers, polyps, tumours).
   • Breathing problems (e.g. lung disease, changes in the airways).
   • Injuries or abnormalities in the abdominal cavity.
3. Taking samples: the endoscope also makes it possible to take biopsies (tissue samples) for further histopathological examination, which is extremely useful in diagnosing tumours and other serious conditions.
4. Treatment: in some cases endoscopy can also be used to perform simple procedures, such as removing foreign bodies from the digestive tract or treating polyps and ulcers.

5. Anaesthesia: the procedure usually requires general anaesthesia, which keeps the animal still and minimises its discomfort during the examination. 

How to prepare your pet for the procedure

Preparing your animal for endoscopy is a key step that ensures the procedure is safe and effective. 

1. Consultation with a veterinarian: see a vet, who will assess your animal’s health and decide whether endoscopy is necessary

2. Fasting: because general anaesthesia is part of the procedure, animals are usually advised not to eat for 12–24 hours beforehand. It is important not to give any food or treats during this time.

3. Proper hydration: make sure your animal has access to water before fasting begins, but limit the amount for a few hours before arriving at the clinic, as advised by the vet.

4. Observation: watch for any changes in your animal’s behaviour in the run-up to the procedure. This information may prove useful during the consultation with the vet. 

5. Additional tests: at Zviropolis Veterinary Clinic we are committed to providing the highest standard of care, which is why we carry out comprehensive blood tests and, where necessary, echocardiography. This minimises the risk of complications and ensures optimal conditions for the procedure. These tests allow us to assess your pet’s health accurately and choose the appropriate anaesthesia protocol

When is endoscopy indicated?

• Recurrent vomiting or diarrhoea of unknown cause
• Difficulty swallowing or discomfort in the mouth
• Unusual changes in appetite and body weight
• Suspected foreign body in the digestive tract
• Signs of recurrent respiratory infections

The decision to perform endoscopy is always made by the veterinarian on the basis of a thorough clinical examination and analysis of the signs!!!

What are the benefits of an endoscopic examination?

• Less invasive: endoscopy is less invasive than traditional surgery, which means a lower risk of complications and a faster recovery.
• Accuracy: it allows organs and tissues to be examined precisely and, where necessary, samples to be taken directly.
• Faster diagnosis: it helps establish the cause of health problems quickly, which means treatment can start sooner.

Summary

Endoscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating health problems in dogs and cats. This modern veterinary approach makes it possible to establish the cause of an animal’s complaints quickly and effectively, which can greatly improve our pets’ quality of life. Proper preparation of the animal for the procedure is essential, so it is worth consulting a veterinarian for the key information and advice. Let’s look after the health of our four-legged friends together at Zviropolis Veterinary Clinic!

Pet owners are often unaware of the potential dangers that parasites pose. Among the most dangerous are those that can cause neurological damage. Parasitic infection in dogs and cats can lead to serious health problems, including damage to the nervous system, which manifests in a wide range of signs.

Where can a dog or cat pick up parasites?

Dogs and cats can become infected with parasites in many ways, mainly through contact with a contaminated environment. This most often happens during walks in parks or on beaches, where animals may eat contaminated soil or grass. It is important for owners to clean up after their pets regularly to minimise the risk of infection, because the presence of other animals’ faeces increases the likelihood of parasites in the surroundings. In addition, cats, especially those that spend time outdoors, may come into contact with infected rodents or birds, which also exposes them to infection. Regular cleaning and keeping an eye on the environment are key to our pets’ health.

The most dangerous parasites: routes of infection and signs

Toxocara canis, the dog roundworm, and Toxocara cati, the cat roundworm

Toxocara canis is an intestinal parasite belonging to the nematode family and is most commonly found in dogs. The adult worms live in the animal’s intestines, where they lay eggs that are passed in the faeces. These eggs can survive in the environment for a long time, acting as a source of infection for other dogs and, in particular, for puppies.

How does infection occur?

Infection can occur as early as in the womb, via the transplacental route (mainly in dogs), and after birth through the mother’s milk (dogs and cats). Most often, however, animals become infected by ingesting eggs present in a contaminated environment, for example in soil, sand or on grass, where the faeces of infected dogs can remain for a long time. 

The time from ingestion of the eggs to the development of larvae is usually 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the parasite species and environmental conditions. In the case of the dog roundworm (Toxocara canis), swallowed eggs can develop into larvae within the host’s body in around 2–3 weeks. For the cat roundworm (Toxocara cati) this can take up to 4–8 weeks.

What signs appear after parasitic infection in dogs and cats?

The signs of toxocariasis may include seizures, balance problems, weakness and behavioural changes, which point to the parasite’s effect on the nervous system. Veterinarians  may recommend diagnostic tests, including faecal examination, to confirm the presence of parasites. Treatment usually involves antiparasitic medication that eliminates Toxocara from the body. If neurological signs are present, the vet may also prescribe supportive medication, such as anticonvulsants, to minimise the effects of nervous system damage and restore the animal to health.

Neospora caninum

How does infection occur?

Neospora caninum is a parasite belonging to the protozoa. It is mainly responsible for disease in dogs, particularly puppies, and is also a significant problem on farms, where it causes disease in cattle. 

Infection most often occurs through eating meat containing the parasite, but it can also be passed across the placenta or through the mother’s milk. Although neosporosis can occur in animals of any age, most cases are recorded in puppies aged 3 to 5 weeks, in whom the disease runs a fairly acute course. In older dogs neosporosis takes a chronic form.

What signs appear after infection?

Initially the disease is asymptomatic. The prepatent period lasts up to 2 weeks, during which the protozoa multiply mainly in the lungs, liver, pancreas, heart muscle and spinal cord. Only once the parasite has matured and inflammation of the nerves and muscles, along with tissue necrosis, has set in do noticeable signs appear.

In puppies the signs may include paresis or paralysis of the hind limbs, which may spread to the front legs, extensive muscle wasting and stiffness of the limbs, which restricts the pet’s mobility. Puppies may also have difficulty swallowing, diarrhoea and breathing difficulties.

In adult dogs possible signs include altered consciousness, hypermetria, ataxia, intention tremor, cranial nerve deficits, unequal pupils, limb paresis, neck pain and epileptic seizures.

Dirofilaria immitis

How does infection occur?

Dirofilaria immitis, known as heartworm, is a parasite that mainly infects dogs but also cats, although it is less common in the latter. Infection occurs mainly through the bites of infected mosquitoes, which act as intermediate hosts and introduce the parasite’s larvae into the animal’s bloodstream. After infection, the larvae migrate to the heart and large blood vessels, where they develop over 6–9 months into adult worms.

What signs appear after infection?

After infection with Dirofilaria immitis, the signs in animals can vary and develop depending on the severity of the infection and how long the parasite has been established in the body. Although most signs centre on the cardiovascular system, significant neurological signs can also occur, such as:

1. Seizures, resulting from brain damage or an inadequate blood supply to the brain caused by the presence of the parasites.
2.  The infection can lead to problems with coordination, resulting in falls or difficulty moving. Animals may show weakness in the hind or front limbs, which in turn affects their ability to carry out everyday activities.
3. Some dogs may become apathetic, less active or show signs of disorientation, which may suggest damage to the nervous system.

Preventing parasitic infections in dogs and cats

Preventing parasitic infections is a key part of looking after the health of our four-legged friends. Appropriate preventive measures help not only to eliminate existing parasites but also to protect against future infection. 

1. Using antiparasitic products: a wide range of products is available, such as spot-on drops, tablets and collars, which protect against both common and less common parasites such as fleas, ticks and nematodes. They should be used as recommended by your vet and tailored to your animal’s individual needs.
2. Environmental control: cleaning up after your pet on walks is a key element in preventing infection with parasites such as Toxocara, which develop in faeces. Regularly tidying the garden and keeping an eye on the surroundings will help minimise the risk of parasites in your pet’s immediate environment.
3. Avoid contact with wild animals: dogs and cats should have limited contact with wild animals, which may carry various parasites. 
4. Hygiene: keeping the areas where animals spend time clean is important in preventing the spread of parasites. Regularly washing beds, toys and pet accessories will help reduce the risk of infection.
5. Regular veterinary visits: routine visits to the vet, including faecal check-ups and advice on prevention, allow your pet’s health to be monitored on an ongoing basis and any problems, including parasitic infections, to be detected early.

Summary

Parasitic infections such as Toxocara canis, Neospora caninum and Dirofilaria immitis can lead to serious health problems in dogs and cats, including neurological signs. At our Zviropolis Veterinary Clinic we have neurology specialists who can help diagnose parasite-related health problems and put the right treatment in place. Remember that by looking after our pets’ health we also protect ourselves from possible infection. Prevention and good health care are the key to a long, happy life for our animals, and to our own peace of mind and safety.