Routine health care of rats in this topic signs of illness dental care for more information other topics in this chapter rats introduction to rats description and physical characteristics of rats special considerations for rats selecting a rat providing a home for a rat routine health care of rats breeding and reproduction of rats disorders and diseases of rats additional content . Many rat owners can testify that its really hard to find someone comfortable enough to care for and handle rats a lot of people can be squeamish so try if you can to line up at least 3 or 4 potential candidates who are willing to watch your rats if you need to leave town pet stores sometimes offer to take care of pets. While rat blocks should comprise the basic diet a variety of fresh foods can be used as a supplement to aid in keeping rats healthy and prevent boredom with the pelleted diet packaged loose mixes are also available but rats tend to pick out their favorite bits from the mix and not eat a balanced diet rotate all food options provided