How much water?

[Chevalrose]

I noticed Tobi was getting a bit dehydrated. His skin didn't snap back very fast when I did the pinch test, and he had some dry poos. I don't know if he's drinking from his water bottles. I didn't have any Pedialite on hand, so I watered down some ensure (which I suppose is a double benefit because he's losing weight due to old age). He had a couple tablespoons last night and 3 or 4 this morning. The skin test did much better this morning just from the 2 he had last night.

How much water does a rat need daily? I think I'll probably start giving him this stuff every morning and night. He still has a good appetite at least, but he apparently doesn't want to drink his water. Should I just give him as much as he wants each time? Also, I think I dodged this bullet, but at what point would sub-Q's be administered?

 

[Rachael]

Can he get to it easily? If he is older, he might not want to drink some a bottle. Something like a saucer or shallow bowl would be easier.
Some of my older rats have just refused to drink water though and need something like a little soya milk. Or you could boil the water, add a little honey, stir it, and allow to cool to tempt him.

 

[jorats]

I'm not sure how much they need but it's a good idea to add that for your old guy. It might even boost his energy.

 

[SQ]

:yeah:

Plus, in addition to his regular food, you can feed him (in as shallow saucer) mushy lab blocks (disolve them in water) as well as baby cereal mixed up with soy infant formula, ensure or water.
My seniors don't drink much water as they get most of what they need from their food

 

[Chevalrose]

He actually still has an appetite. I see him eating lab blocks regularly. I try to give him some extra treats once in a while to keep fattening him up.

 

Try giving his a water dish instead of a bottle, he may drink from that more.