The Gambian pouched rat is a big rodent from Sub-Saharan Africa. The importing of Gambian pouched rats into the United States has been prohibited.
Gambian pouched rats require frequent attention from a young age to remain friendly as pets. They also require a large enclosure in which they exercise. Furthermore, because there are no commercial meals manufactured expressly for them, their diet is quite complex. Overall, this mouse is a high-maintenance pet that needs a skilled and committed owner.
As Pet/ In Captivity
Buying or Adopting a Gambian Pouched Rat
Because there aren’t many breeders in the United States who offer this species, you may have to go quite a distance to find your animal. You can also adopt a Gambian pouched rat from a rescue organization. On average, expect to pay between $200 to $500, though this can vary depending on age and other considerations.
Housing
A large, strong enclosure is required for Gambian pouched rats. In general, the cage should be as big as you can get away with and afford. It should be at least 3 feet long, 2 feet broad, and 2 feet tall.
Eat and drink
In the wild, Gambian pouched rats are omnivores, eating plants and animals such as different flora, insects, and small mammals. They require a diversified diet of commercial rat grain mix, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, insects (such as crickets and mealworms), and cooked lean meats and eggs as pets. Consult your veterinarian for the proper amount.
It’s ideal to feed perishable goods in the evening when rats are up and hungry, so they consume them rapidly. Other meals, such as grains and seeds, can be placed in a small dish in the cage for your mouse to graze on. Any uneaten food should be discarded within 24 hours.
Your rat will always require fresh water. A water bottle affixed to the enclosure’s side is perfect for keeping the water clean. However, retain a water dish in the enclosure until you are certain your rat is constantly drinking from the bottle. Such bottles can easily be found on Amazon or other online stores.
Grooming
Gambian pouched rats will groom themselves on a regular basis. They don’t need baths in general, but you may need to help them remove debris entrenched in their fur from time to time by gently rubbing the area with a damp cloth.
Exercise
Exercise is important for Gambian pouched rats because it keeps them mentally stimulated and physically healthy, which helps them avoid health problems like obesity. They should spend at least a couple hours each day outside of their cage for supervised play and socializing. To encourage them to move, provide toys both inside and outside of the cage.
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