As many of you know I have been producing patchwork and hairless patchworks since 2005, they are my favourite rat and probably the reason why I've continued working on them even when I've stopped working on other coat types.
I have had a number hairless patchworks and patchworks over the years and the only health issues I have ever encounted with them is they are prone to Eye injuries due to scratches or dirt, which can cause them to lose the injured eye. Also they are prone to skin scratches as they have no hair to protect their skin. With females they can also have problems producing milk for babies.
Other than that they are just like fully haired rats, they live just as long and they are no more susceptible to colds and myco than any rat.
They do need to be kept warmer than haired rats and need a little more protein because of not having hair and being more active.
I recorded one of my 3 month old boys today running in a wheel I have for young boys. I think he needs a bigger wheel, but he obviously enjoys running. :-D
I have had a number hairless patchworks and patchworks over the years and the only health issues I have ever encounted with them is they are prone to Eye injuries due to scratches or dirt, which can cause them to lose the injured eye. Also they are prone to skin scratches as they have no hair to protect their skin. With females they can also have problems producing milk for babies.
Other than that they are just like fully haired rats, they live just as long and they are no more susceptible to colds and myco than any rat.
They do need to be kept warmer than haired rats and need a little more protein because of not having hair and being more active.
I recorded one of my 3 month old boys today running in a wheel I have for young boys. I think he needs a bigger wheel, but he obviously enjoys running. :-D