Is it possible to wash a rat: instructions for bathing decorative rats at home

Rats are distinguished by cleanliness and closely monitor their own hygiene. Water procedures, if the rodent is healthy and lives in a clean cage, are optional. Bathing rats is a procedure that requires skill and a competent approach, otherwise there is a risk of harming the pet or scaring it.

Do rats like to swim

The closest relative of the ornamental rat is the pasyuk, which feels great in the water. It can stay afloat for up to 72 hours. In their natural habitat, Pasyuki are able to dive and hunt underwater.

Pasyuki do not use water for hygienic purposes. They prefer dry cleaning methods with sand, grooming, and their own teeth. These rodents are not inclined to frolic in water bodies without practical intentions.

Among decorative individuals there are those who enjoy swimming. Animals accustomed to water calmly perceive bathing. Many pets, on the contrary, resist and tend to sneak away.

Is it possible to bathe domestic rats

Disputes whether it is possible to wash a rat are found on thematic forums. There is a popular misconception that bathing is contraindicated and dangerous for a rodent. Water procedures can harm the animal only if they are carried out too often, or if precautions are not taken.

Washing domestic rats is mandatory:

• if the pet is dirty that it should not be eaten;
• after a long stay in a dirty cage;
• when the rodent is untidy and does not take care of itself;
• when removing parasites;
• 2-3 days before the exhibition.

In other cases, the animal can do without soaking in the pelvis. Rodents easily cope with household pollution themselves.

You need to remember:

• decorative rodents have a predisposition to respiratory diseases;
• undried wool, cold water, drafts can contribute to a cold;
• water in the ears is the cause of otitis media;
• the frequent use of detergents violates the natural protection of the skin, leads to dryness, itching and affects the quality of the coat.

Washing a rat at home is quite troublesome. An unaccustomed to water pet will break out and spin, which makes it difficult to observe safety precautions. Therefore, if there is no urgent need, it is better to do with simple cleaning methods. Bathing decorative rats more than twice a month is not recommended.

Grooming in rats

Grooming is a natural form of interaction between animals in a pack. Biting and licking each other helps rodents to take care of their fur and improves blood circulation.

At home, the rat can be combed out with special combs, or a toothbrush with soft bristles. So that the pet is not distracted by the tool, and it is more convenient for the owner, it is advisable to cut the handle.

Rats love the soft bristle action. The process is associated with maternal care and signs of attention from fellow tribesmen. The procedure is of particular benefit to a rodent that lives alone.

How to wash a rat’s tail

Even clean animals do not pay due attention to the condition of their tail. This is especially true for males. The tail is involved in the heat exchange of the rat’s body, so in hot weather it is advisable to wash off the dirt and dead scales. A similar procedure is carried out before exhibitions. You can clean the rat’s tail without water procedures.

You need to prepare:

• container with water at room temperature;
• cotton wheels;
• a toothbrush with soft bristles;
• baby cream without chemical additives and pungent odor;
• safe shampoo;
• dry cloth.

Before the procedure, dirt and dead scales must be soaked. For mild soiling, water is sufficient. Otherwise, you will have to add a few drops of shampoo to the container and mix.

Step by step cleaning algorithm:

1. Moisten the tail with a solution using a cotton swab. Severe contamination requires processing up to 10 minutes.
2. Toothbrush without pressure to hold from the base to the tip. Aggressive mechanical action is unacceptable, as it leads to skin damage.
3. After cleaning with clean water, wash off the remaining dirt and soapy water.
4. Dry the tail with a cloth and moisten with baby cream.

If the first time it was not possible to clean everything, the procedure can be repeated after a few days. To encourage the pet’s patience, after manipulations, it is advisable to treat him with a treat.

Video how to wash a rat’s tail

How to bathe a rat at home

For the first bath to go smoothly, you need to provide comfortable conditions for the pet. It is desirable to carry out the event in a familiar environment for the animal. It is better to collect water before washing, so that the noise of pouring water does not frighten the animal. Bathing a rat is faster and more convenient if you prepare everything you need in advance. To avoid scratches, the owner should protect his hands with clothes.

For washing you need:

• 2 containers with warm water;
• special shampoo;
• 2 towels.

Instead of a washcloth, you can take a soft cloth. Without skill, you should not use brushes and sponges to wash the rat. There is a chance of accidentally injuring the animal, or causing him pain.

The depth of the water in the tank should be such that it is convenient for the rodent to stand on four legs, this is about 5 cm. The temperature is in the range of 30–35 degrees. If there is no thermometer at hand, it is checked with the elbow. The water should be slightly warm, but not hot.

How to properly wash a rat:

• the pet is placed in one of the baths. Wool is carefully moistened, making sure that water does not get into the ear canals;
• a special shampoo is foamed in the hand and the hair is massaged with the fingertips;
• after transplanted into a second container and thoroughly washed off the shampoo with clean water.

It is permissible to wash a rat under running water only if it has become soiled in a toxic substance. After this, the pet should be shown to the veterinarian.

Running water, or a jet from a container when rinsing, can get into the ear canals of a rodent, which contributes to otitis media. The rat’s ears fold in when it dives voluntarily. If the water pours out unexpectedly, the pet does not have time to orient and take security measures.

The ears of Dumbo rats require additional attention. They are located on the head a little lower than others, so the likelihood of moisture ingress is higher.

Video how to properly wash a rat

How to wash a rat if it is afraid of water

You can teach a rat to water if you purposefully do it. It is recommended to start with games under the supervision of the owner. A little water is poured into the saucer and the rodent is allowed to freely get acquainted with the new environment. The wool can be lightly wetted by hand. After that, the pet is treated to a favorite treat so that positive associations are developed.

The rat’s fear may not be related to water, but to the circumstances of bathing. A new environment, the noise of a tap jet, the loud exclamations of a person inspire anxiety in a rodent.

If the rat is afraid of water, the help of an assistant may be needed. It is better for a bather to choose clothes with long sleeves to avoid scratches.

If the contamination is not significant and there is no obvious need to wash the rat, you can do with cleaning with a cotton swab. It is moistened in warm water and gently processed pet hair.

Video how to train a rat to water

Rat shampoo

How to wash a rat is a separate issue. For bathing, you can not use ordinary shampoos and soaps. Human hygiene products contain chemicals that can cause disease and skin problems in rodents.

It is best to purchase a special shampoo for rodents. In extreme cases, you can use the means for washing kittens. It is better to give preference to products with a slight smell, or a complete absence of it.

Some rat breeders use mild baby shampoo to bathe their pet. This can be done only after a thorough study of the composition.