Temperature Control - What to do when it's too hot or too cold
Rats tend to be okay between 15C and 25C with no extra input. They also do better with gradual temperature changes rather than sudden changes. Sudden changes in temperature and humidity can lead to respiratory irritation.
What to do if it is below 15C:
- Provide more bedding
- If they are losing weight, increase their food
If the heating has been on a lot and the humidity is lowering, consider popping a bowl of water near/on top of a radiator to increase the humidity.
What to do if it is above 25C:
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Some other practical things that you can do:
- If you know a heatwave is coming, don't manage the temperature of the room as much in the lead up to try and acclimatise the rats to warmer temperatures. That way when there's a real spike in the temperature you'll have your full toolkit to use.
- Give them a more open layout to allow more airflow within the cage.
- Use more springy substrate that will allow some airflow and won't become compacted and hotter.
If a rat is suffering from heat stroke, hold them under a tap and run cool water over their legs and tail.