How to Bathe a Domestic White Rat

Rats have a reputation as being dirty animals, when the truth in fact is very different. They clean themselves regularly using their tongue, but should also be cleaned regularly by their owner in the same way the rat's cage is. White rats will show dirt a lot more than brown rats due to their color, but the cleaning regime is the same.

Things You'll Need

  • Bowl
  • Warm water
  • Soft brush
  • Dry towel
  • Cat shampoo
  • Toothbrush
  • Cup
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select a suitable bowl to wash your rat in. It should be large enough so the rat can move around.

    • 2

      Fill the bowl with warm, but not hot water. Fill it enough so the rat can move around easily; about 1 inch of water should be suitable.

    • 3

      Collect all the other materials required for bathing the rat. If you have to leave the room to get anything while bathing the rat, it may try to escape.

    • 4

      Place the rat into the bowl of water and use a small cup to pour water over its back. Only wash one rat at a time; otherwise, they can be a handful to control.

    • 5

      Rub a little cat shampoo into the rat's fur and massage in gently using a toothbrush or your fingertips.

    • 6

      Remove the shampoo by pouring warm water from a cup over the rat's back.

    • 7

      Dry the rat using a towel. Do not be too vigorous with the rubbing as this will distress the animal and make it fear bath times.