what to feed rats?

[dcoons4]

I have two rats who are about 7 months old. i have been feeding them store bought mixes with seeds and grains. but i've read they are awful for them. i am in high school and i don't have time to prepare these elaborate diets for them. but i want them to have the nutrition they need. what should i buy for them?

 

[victoria]

Look here for info about lab blocks. Harlan Teklad 2014 and Oxbow are the best blocks on the market and easier and easier to get nowadays. HT is available online (Mainely Rat Rescue and a few other sources in the states) and Oxbow through many vets and pet supply stores. Try to get the "new" Oxbow if you can, rats tend to like it much more. Add some healthy scraps (veggies, fruits, whole grain products) and you are good to go!

 

[Spork]

A good quality lab block like Harlan Teklad 2014 or Oxbow Regal Rat (stay away from Kaytee Forti-Diet). Oxbow is sold in some petstores, and HT can be ordered online from The Crafty Rat and Mainely Rat Rescue.

This thread will answer all your questions.

 

[dcoons4]

thank you to both of you! i've heard good things about these lab block brands but i've never tried them. will the rats most likely eat the new oxbow blocks?

 

[victoria]

It seems like it, although I haven't tried it. All of my rats love HT though, regardless what they ate before I adopted them.

 

[DadRat]

All of our rats have loved HT.

We get ours from Mainely Rat Rescue or the Craft Rat.

 

[dcoons4]

I think I'll give the HT a try. Which type would you recommend?

 

[victoria]

2014.

 

[DadRat]

2014.

What she said.

 

[*Rebel_Angel*]

I third the 2014!!