Orphaned Rats
Nowadays, it's very common to have an orphaned rat. Orphaned rats are generally speaking, rats under 5 weeks. Rats under 13 weeks are known as 'kittens'.
Here is some information to help you, if you experience this. (Also see "sexing rats").
Where will I find an orphaned rat?
Many orphaned rats come from pet shops. These rats have been handed in too young, not weaned fully, and cannot meet up to 'A Rats Diet Needs'. Depending on their age, they will need a specialist diet.
What will I feed them?
'Lactol milk powder' should be given to rats under 2wks, you can often buy this at pet shops. If about 2.5-3weeks, you can generally feed them on soya milk, kitten meat/puppy meat, and baby food. (Sweet pudding are good, they are easy to digest).
At 5 weeks, you can start to introduce new tastes. Start with crumbs of cooked chicken along with their existing diet and gradually introduce to other foods working towards a full diet. Take your time as there is no rush, go at your rats own pace and tolerance to the change of diet.
Where will I keep them?
Preferably in a small cage. (Hamster/Small rat)
Tanks aren't great, they don't let in enough air for your rat(s).
Put a towel, or something else soft, as the bedding. Pets @ Home stock 'Safe bedding', for small mammals and this is also good. A heating-pad may or may not be needed, again dependent on the ages.
How do you feed them?
If 2wks+, they can eat themselves. If under, you will need to buy a syringe and use it. Gently put the syringe to the corner of their mouth (it will not go straight in the front), and squirt in the food.
WARNING; KITTENS MAY CHOKE EASILY AND YOU NEED TO DO THIS WITH EXTREME CARE.
How often do I feed them?
It will depend on their ages. Babies under 2wks, will need fed hourly or sometimes even more so.
With rats 2wks or older, every 2 hours should be ok. (Sometimes even 3, dependent on the rat and his/her background.)
This includes during the night as this is when they would feed frequently from their mothers as her milk is at it's best.
Soya Milk should be changed hourly though, as they won't drink it unless it's cool and fresh.
Why won't they go to the loo?
If very young, kittens can't 'go' themselves. If with a mother, the mother would lick their 'privates' and this would make them 'go.'
With your finger, use some soft material (very small) and quickly & gently rub their 'privates'.
If ever in doubt, join our forum as there is a section on 'Young Rats', this should guide you through & help, due to some very helpful & experienced members.
Good luck.
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