What can rats eat?
A quick guide to 30 common foods for pet rats: which are safe, which to limit, and which are toxic. Based on RSPCA and PDSA guidance — the same list is in the Rattitude Care app.
Safe foods
Fine as part of the daily diet or as a treat, in the portions shown.
- Rat Pellets / Lab BlocksMain Diet
- BroccoliSafe & Nutritious
- CarrotSafe
- CucumberSafe & Hydrating
- PeasSafe & Fun
- Sweet PotatoSafe Cooked
- AppleSafe Without Seeds
- BananaSafe & High Energy
- BerriesSafe Treat
- WatermelonSafe
- Buckwheat / OatsHealthy Grain
- Hard Boiled EggExcellent Protein
- Cooked Meat / ChickenSafe
Limit — small amounts only
Fine in small amounts when prepared as described, but easy to overdo. Occasional treats only.
Toxic — never feed
Harmful to rats. Do not feed these in any amount.
How treats fit into a rat's diet
Most of what a rat eats each day should be a complete rat pellet or nugget, weighed out from the pack guidelines. Fresh fruit, vegetables and treats come out of that daily allowance, not on top of it: the RSPCA warns that extra sugar and fat lead to obesity and health problems, and rats gain weight easily. Remove any fresh food that hasn't been eaten within a few hours.
Sources
Last updated: September 29, 2026
This guide is general information based on RSPCA and PDSA guidance and does not replace a veterinarian. If your rat seems unwell, please contact an exotic-pet vet.