Is it ok to use a mild dish detergent or shampoo to wash my rats?
2007-09-08 15:34:58 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Rodents
When our little guys need an occasional bath, I use either baby or kitten shampoo. Our boy rats definately need bathing more often than the girls, who often just need a little help with their tails.
Our guys get more of a 'shower'-- I hold the dirty rat securely in one hand & work quickly with the other, using only a bit of shampoo & never above the middle of the back (which usually doesn't need it anyway-- I use a damp cloth without shampoo on their faces). The guys are used to the routine, hang on calmly & seem to enjoy the process, especially in hot weather.
Recently I discovered that a gentle session with a flea comb is great for removing loose hair, & the boys enjoy this also (haven't tried it on the girls yet).
2007-09-08 20:46:37 · answer #1 · answered by Catkin 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Always use baby shampoo and if your rats have skin conditions wash them in camomile tea which is soothing and helps heal dry skin and scabs.
2007-09-09 05:08:46 · answer #2 · answered by ♆Şрhĩņxy - Lost In Time. 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I"ve used shampoo to wash my own rats--it should be okay. Make sure that your rats are rinsed clean though (as they wash themselves like cats--you don't want them to suffer any consequences/poisoning). Make sure you completely towel them dry as well.
If you can find a shampoo that's non-toxic, that would be best. I wouldn't use dish detergent; it could be an irritant.
2007-09-08 22:43:20 · answer #3 · answered by Nipivy 4 · 2⤊ 3⤋
Believe it or not rats are relatively clean animals when living in captivity. They tend to wash their faces after eating and the other end after deficating. If the need arrises that you need to bathe one use a baby shampoo. Preferably one that won't sting his eyes if you inadvertantly get some there. Be sure to dry them thoroughly so they do not get a chill. Rats can be prone to upper respiratory infections. I have bathed many rats and mine seemed to enjoy the experience. Good Luck
2007-09-08 22:42:52 · answer #4 · answered by Terry R 4 · 4⤊ 3⤋
If your rat has an odor, try rubbing your pet with cornstarch, and brushing most of it off. It takes less effort than trying to bathe it, and you don't have to worry about skin irritation or making sure your pet is thoroughly dry.
2007-09-09 00:04:35 · answer #5 · answered by Molly McTrouble 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
For my female rats, I use Johnson's baby shampoo. For my males, I use Dawn original. It's perfectly fine. :)
Just be careful what you use. I wouldn't use anything other than what I listed, because those have been used on animals without side effects, and I wouldn't risk anything else.
2007-09-08 22:41:29 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 3⤋
if you use shampoo make bsure it dosn't get in their eyes or ears
2007-09-09 07:55:26 · answer #7 · answered by Madison 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋