Rats are omnivorous animals that will eat a wide variety of foods. In the wild, rats will eat whatever food sources are available, including fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, insects, and small animals. In urban and suburban areas, rats will often scavenge for food in and around homes, restaurants, and other human habitation areas.
Here are some common foods that rats will eat:
Fruits: Rats are particularly fond of fruits such as apples, bananas, grapes, and oranges.
Vegetables: Rats will also eat a variety of vegetables, including carrots, broccoli, and celery.
Grains: Rats are attracted to grains such as rice, oats, and wheat. They will also eat bread and other baked goods.
Seeds and nuts: Rats enjoy eating seeds and nuts such as sunflower seeds, almonds, and walnuts.
Meat and dairy: Although rats are primarily herbivorous, they will eat meat and dairy products if they are available. This includes leftover scraps of meat, cheese, and other dairy products.
Insects: In the wild, rats will eat insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, and crickets.
Pet food: Rats will also eat pet food if it is left out in the open. This is one reason why it is important to store pet food in sealed containers.
While rats will eat a wide variety of foods, they can also transmit diseases through their urine and feces. It is important to keep food storage areas clean and free of rodent droppings, and to store food in sealed containers to prevent rats from accessing it. If you have a rat infestation in or around your home, it is important to take steps to eliminate the infestation and prevent future infestations from occurring.