If you’re a rat lover, you may have come across the hairless variety. These bald cuties are also referred to as “sphinx” or “nude” rats.
The double rex is the most common type of hairless rat. While lacking fur, these adorable critters have short, curly whiskers and may have small patches of fur on their ankles or faces.
Whether you’ve been a rat parent for years or are just starting out in the rodent world, here are 10 things that you should know about double rex rats.
The 8 Things You Should Know About Double Rex Rats
1. Double Rex Rats Can Be Kept With Furry Ones
One of the first things you may be wondering shortly after you’ve purchased your first double rex rat is if they can coexist peacefully in the same cage as your furry one. The answer is yes! Double rex rats have basically the same care needs as their hairy counterparts. Moreover, all rats are social creatures and always need a friend.
2. You’ll Need to Get the Best Type of Cage for a Double Rex
Your double rex rat will have almost the exact same care guidelines as a furry rat. However, due to their lack of hair, they will need to be kept warm and cozy in their new habitat. They will also be more susceptible to injuries.
The ideal cage for a double rex rat is one with no sharp edges. A well-ventilated rat cage with soft hammocks and fleece liners is ideal. You should aim to keep the ambient temperature inside the cage between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Never place the cage near an open window or any other drafty or cold area.
3. Your Double Rex Rat Will Need Specific Bedding
You’ll need to purchase bedding that is warm and soft. Wood shavings or wood chips can make your double rex rat uncomfortable and may also injure their sensitive skin. The types of bedding that are great for double rex rats include paper bedding and shredded fleece or other types of fabrics.
You will need to maintain a vigilant cleaning schedule for your double rex’s cage. Dirty bedding can easily irritate their skin.
4. Double Genes Mean Double the Trouble
Your double rex rat gets their name from the two rex genes that they carry. While standard rex rats only carry one rex gene, double rexes carry two, which makes them hairless.
5. A High Quality Diet is Ideal
Double Rex rats, like all rats, thrive on a well-balanced and nutritionally complete diet. The foundation of their diet should be a high-quality commercial rat food or lab block that provides the necessary protein, fat, and fiber. You can supplement this with small amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid high-fat or sugary treats, and always ensure they have access to fresh, clean water.
6. There’s a Certain Way to Handle a Double Rex
As with any other rat, double rexes love to spend quality time with their owners. Besides handling them gently, you should always clean your hands with mild soap and water before you pick up your double rex. This will decrease the likelihood of skin irritation and keep them bacteria-free.
7. Double Rex Rats Are Not That Expensive
The average price for a double rex is between $25 and $50.
8. A Double Rex Makes a Great Pet Rat
If you’re a true rat lover, you may want to consider buying a double rex. However, keep in mind that although they can live in the same cage as their fur-ball friends, they do need weekly bathing and a protein-packed diet.
Double rexes are sweet, lovable, and totally naked rodents that make excellent companions!
Conclusion
We hope that this article has given you insight into double rex rats. These rodents can be amazing pets because of their intelligence, cleanliness, and cuteness. So, will you get yourself an adorable double rex? Let us know!
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Featured Image Credit: Ezume Images, Shutterstock
Contents
- The 8 Things You Should Know About Double Rex Rats
- 1. Double Rex Rats Can Be Kept With Furry Ones
- 2. You’ll Need to Get the Best Type of Cage for a Double Rex
- 3. Your Double Rex Rat Will Need Specific Bedding
- 4. Double Genes Mean Double the Trouble
- 5. A High Quality Diet is Ideal
- 6. There’s a Certain Way to Handle a Double Rex
- 7. Double Rex Rats Are Not That Expensive
- 8. A Double Rex Makes a Great Pet Rat
- Conclusion
