Rats - Friendly, Smart & Fun!

Many people wouldn’t even consider getting a pet rat. They get the creepy-crawlies just thinking about it. Personally, I think rats have gotten a raw deal. Don’t get me wrong, wild rats that you find around dumpsters carry disease and can bite like monsters…but domesticated rats can be great pets! Rats are actually very smart animals and are much friendlier than hamsters, gerbils or mice. Not all pet stores carry rats, however, they are much more common than they used to be and are excellent small pets.

Rats are brave, curious and friendly. Females tend to be more alert and less lazy than males (isn’t THAT interesting!). Females are also better off in the looks department. Ok, I just threw that in there….but I’m sure it’s true. Rats enjoy interacting with their owners and even enjoy a bath now and again. They are extremely curious and love to check out new things. Adding a paper towel tube or an empty can (without the sharp edges) to your rat’s cage will keep it entertained for hours! Rats need daily interaction with their human. If you do not have a lot of extra time, then two rats is better than one (they will keep each other company and entertained).

Most cages that are sold in local pet stores are too small to house pet rats. A 10-gallon tank is the ideal home for your rodent friend. Rats are simple animals and only need the basics (food dish, water bottle, small bones to chew on, and some nesting material). Be sure that the tank you choose to house your rat has a secure lid. Trust me, if your rat can find a way to escape…he will (like I said, they are smart!). Rats enjoy free time to wander and explore. It is important to take your rat out of its cage occasionally so that it can check out new and exciting things. Be sure to keep an eye on your rat while it is wandering around your room as you wouldn’t want him to get lost! If there is a hole to climb into…trust me, your rat will find it!

Rats eat “rat chow” or gerbil pellets…both of which are sold at your local pet supply store. They also love raw vegetable, meat and of course, cheese! It is probably no surprise to learn that you will not be able to teach your rat tricks such as sit or speak but you can teach him to eat from your hand. Rats also enjoy being carried around outside of their cages….they are perfect pocket pets! Once your rat becomes familiar with you and is comfortable, he will run to greet you (hoping for a ride outside of his cage!). Rats do not live very long…only two to four years….but, in my opinion, they are the most interesting of the rodent family.