Can rats eat potatoes?
Yes, but only cooked and a little: rats can eat potatoes. The Swiss animal welfare society (STS) lists potatoes as cooked only. It puts raw potatoes under poisonous or dangerous foods. The Zurich animal welfare society (Zürcher Tierschutz) lists cooked potatoes as a rare food for small amounts. The RSPCA, on the other hand, suggests potato pieces as a source of water on short trips without saying raw or cooked, so we err on the side of caution.
How to serve it: cooked only (STS), a small piece
Good to know: Only offer potatoes cooked. Rats can’t vomit, so the RSPCA warns that even a small amount of something harmful can kill them. If you’re worried your rat has come into contact with anything harmful, the RSPCA says to contact your vet immediately.
Sources
- Schweizer Tierschutz STS – Merkblatt Heimtiere: Ratten
- Zürcher Tierschutz (Zurich animal welfare society) – Farbratten: Haltung
- Zürcher Tierschutz (Zurich animal welfare society) – Farbratten: soziale Schlauköpfe (guide)
- RSPCA – Rat health and welfare
Last checked: November 2026