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I have pet rats and I’ve considered putting tree branches in their cage, but I’m afraid branches from outdoors might contain parasites like ticks and mites. Should I bake the branches, and if so, how should I do it?
Thank you for visiting and asking this question.
Giving your pet rats a natural chew toy such as tree branches is a great idea. Apple tree branches and twigs make for a flavorful treat. Your concerns for the potential of parasites is also very conscientious. You should also make sure that no pesticides or any other chemicals where used on the branches you are collecting. I would not recommend “baking” the branches for several reasons, but you can put them in your freezer for approximately one week and that will generally take care of any bugs. If you have ANY concerns for chemical contaminants then I would recommend NOT using the branches at all.
I simply found some branches out in the field by the road. How can I tell if there are any pesticides or other chemicals?
If it was me, and I didn’t know for a fact then I would not let my rats have them. I’d rather be safe, than sorry, especially when it comes to the welfare of my pets.
Much like you both, I too have lost many of my “children”….and understand the pain. Most recently, I lost Bandit…which confuses me as he was fine one moment..and not the next (stroke). Some of my rats (I call them bRats since they’re spoiled) remind me of our first ones – especially of Cheezer and Inop (I’m on a GMR kick because I can’t live without them). Velveteen reminds me of Cheezer…who would get out of the cage just to sleep on my feet at night…or he’d constantly come over to me while he was out just to make sure I was still there and watching him. I’ve been having issues with my female rats — they get mammary gland problems (lumps). I’ve already had to take them to the vet for surgery so they could be removed — is there something I’m doing wrong…or is it hereditary?
@Poni – I appreciate you sharing your rat history with us. As to the “lumps”, to the best of my understanding this is more often a hereditary issue than anything else. Have you spoken with your vet regarding possible lifestyle alternatives for your rats?
PS: Regarding some of the questions regarding branches, there are Branch Bites (made out of fruit wood) that are perfectly safe for your “kids”. They can be found at most pet supply stores and aren’t that expensive.
Are you located in San Diego, CA? I would like to offer small fleece pouches to you for your foster rats. I’m making them for Wee Companions and Project Wildlife. All from free scraps. Please let me know if I can help. I love ratlings.
We are located just outside Toronto, ON, CANADA. Thank you for the offer, it is very generous of your time. If you wish to help out a rat rescue, please contact Star’s Rat Rescue in Winner, SD … they could use all the help they can get with their recent large-scale rescue.