Is it hard owning a rat?

Rats are very low maintenance pets to own. They are very comfortable in their own environment and can go long periods of the day without much attention. If you are the type of owner that is away for long periods of the day then pet rats

pet rats

The fancy rat (Rattus norvegicus domestica) is the domesticated form of Rattus norvegicus, the brown rat, and the most common species of rat kept as a pet.

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Fancy rat - Wikipedia

may be a good choice for you.

Are rats good beginner pets?

Rats can make great pets! Rats are easy to care for, have very little odor, and they rarely bite. They are affectionate and intelligent animals that often will bond quickly with their owners and easily learn new tricks.

Are rats good pets to have?

A Great First Pet

Fancy rats are one of the few pets that are good for kids. Unlike other pocket pets like hamsters, rats rarely bite. They are sturdier than other rodents and they don't tend to make fast rapid movements. Since rats sleep for 15 hours a day, they don't need the same time commitment as a cat or dog.

What are the cons of owning a rat?

Fancy rats, unless they have been very well bred, are prone to a wide range of health problems. Particular issues are respiratory infections, mammary tumours, uterine infections and cancer. Just because rats can be quite cheap to buy does not mean they are an inexpensive pet.

Are pet rats a lot of work?

But they do need lots of attention, so you'll need lots of time to care for them. They'll need daily social interaction and at least an hour of exercise outside their cage every day, so it's important that everyone in the family is keen on the idea of keeping rats as pets.

Pros and Cons of Fancy Rats as Pets - Audio version

Do rat cages smell?

Cleaning. How often and how thoroughly you clean your rats cage, is the key to reducing rat smells. Just like if you let your cat or dog urinate all over your house, if left for long periods it would start to smell!

How cuddly are rats?

They are very social and love to hang out with human family members on the couch or on peoples' shoulders or in their laps. They will even try to groom their human companions as if these people were other rats in their “rat pack.” Pet rats love the warmth and contact of their caretakers and are actually very cuddly!

Will my rat be OK alone?

Rats are social creatures and need the company of other rats. They use their sense of smell to recognise others, finding out about where they've been and what they've been doing. As rats are social animals, they can get depressed and develop abnormal behaviour if they live on their own.

What is the lifespan of a pet rat?

Rats live for around 2 years, but some may live longer.

Is it expensive to keep a rat?

Rats are relatively cheap to buy and keep, especially compared to other popular pets. You'll still have to spend some money on initial costs like their housing, and there are other expenses to consider including food, toys and possible vet fees.

Do rats get attached to their owners?

Rats are clean, intelligent, affectionate animals which bond to their owners in much the same way that dogs do, and with the right care can provide a similar level of companionship. Rats become very attached to their owners, make playful, sensitive pets, and can be taught to come by name and learn tricks.

Are rats noisy at night?

Mice and rats are nocturnal, so if they're in your home, you'll most likely hear their sounds at night or right as you're heading to bed. However, rodents aren't the only animals that may make or cause noise in your home. Sounds during the day may indicate a squirrel infestation, as these animals are diurnal.

Should I get boy or girl rats?

Always adopt the same sex, so you don't end up with babies. It's always best to adopt littermates when possible. Gender: Although all rats have individual personalities, females tend to be smaller, more active, and playful, while males are often larger, more mellow, and snuggly.

Why not to get a rat?

Many people own and enjoy pet rats. However, pet rats, even when they look clean and healthy, can carry germs that can make people sick. A clean environment will help reduce the chance of the rat becoming sick and spreading germs to humans.

Where should I keep my pet rat?

Rats are very susceptible to heat stress, which can be fatal. Make sure his cage is in a sheltered area which is well ventilated, and kept out of direct sunlight and strong winds. He must always have access to adequate shade.

Can rats be potty trained?

They are highly trainable pets. So the answer to this question is yes - rats can be potty trained. Rats will usually defecate in one area of their cage, even if they have no litter box. Getting a rat litter box will help you to keep their cage cleaner, however.

How many rats should I get?

It is always best to have at least two rats as they are very social animals and become lonely and bored living alone. It is important to make sure that your rat has a large enough house to move freely and get exercise.

Do rats like being handled?

Unlike most small pets, rats love being picked up and handled by their human owners. While rats do enjoy human interaction, they'll need to be picked up and handled from a young age so they're used to it. Rats rarely bite and their larger size makes them easier to pick up.

Do rats know their names?

Mice and rats are so smart that they can recognize their names and respond when called.

What size cage do rats need?

Rats: All rats should have a minimum cage height of 7 inches (17.8 cm), according to the Guide. Rats housed in groups should have at least 17 to 70 square inches (109.6 to 451.5 cm) of floor space per rat, depending on weight. A female rat and her litter would need at least 124 square inches (800 cm) of floor space.

Which gender rat is more cuddly?

Male rats tend to be quite cuddly and affectionate pets with a mellow temperament. They are likely to enjoy snuggling up with you for some head scratches. If you want a more independent and adventurous companion, a female rat may be the pet for you. Female rats are quite active and like to get busy exploring.

Why do pet rats lick you?

If your rat nibbles or licks you, he or she might be showing you affection by grooming you. Rats also have an excellent sense of smell, so your rat might nibble or lick your hand or smell you after you eat or prepare food.

What is the most friendly rodent pet?

The largest of the rodents commonly kept as pets, their size and gentle temperament make guinea pigs popular. They are social, unlikely to bite, and do well in same sex pairs or groups.