How to Bathe Your Pet Rat

Pet rats are similar to cats in that neither care for a bath. Rats in general are self groomers and do not need human intervention to get clean. There are moments however when a bath will do much to improve the appearance and smell of a pet rat. Bathe your pet rat when he is old and needs help, after he has laid in urine or is not doing an adequate job of keeping clean.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pet shampoo
• Warm water
• Pet cleansing powder
• Waterless pet shampoo
• Pet cleansing wipes
• Towel

1. Thoroughly clean the rat's cage so it is fresh after the bath.

2. Bathe your rat in a sink of warm water. Quickly dip the rat in the water and then lather him up with puppy or cat shampoo. Rinse the rat in the sink. Wrap him in a warm, dry towel to dry. Place your rat back in his cage.

3. Use a powder shampoo to give your water hating rat a bath. Use a powder that is meant for cleaning cats and/or dogs. Sprinkle the powder on the rat, avoiding the head. Brush in the powder with a soft brush.

4. Spray your rat with a waterless shampoo made for pets. Hold the rat securely in one hand, spray the cleaner on the rat with the other hand, avoiding the head. Rub the spray into a lather with your hands. Dry the rat with a clean towel.

5. Wipe your pet rat down with pet cleansing wipes, such as MalAcetic pet wipes. Use pet wipes to clean your rat's head, ear and eye areas, as well as the rest of his body. Dry your rat with a clean towel.