Misty's Mischief is a Registered Rat Breeder based in Auckland, New Zealand. Focusing on raising Angora (fluffy) rats.
Each pairing is thoughtfully chosen to prioritise health, temperament, and wellbeing. We’re committed to ethical breeding practices and ongoing support for every rat and their new family.
We believe rats make extraordinary companions; they are clever and full of personality and so our philosophy is to allow our rats to choose their families. Each adoption conducted at our physical premesis is guided with care, so every bond begins with a heartfelt Mischief-approved connection.
Our personalised adoption experience is all about connecting our rats to their forever families. When babies reach around 6 weeks old, we contact our waitlist to confirm interest and schedule a ‘meet your rats’ appointment—either in person or via video. It’s a chance to visit the Rattery, interact with the babies, meet their parents, and chat about how to care for your new companions.
By 8 weeks, the babies are ready to head off to their forever homes. You’re welcome to collect your rats from us in Auckland, or we can help arrange safe transport via animal couriers like Swift or Pet Bus.
From first cuddle to lifelong care, we’re here to support every step of your mischief-making journey!
Misty’s Mischief Rattery is a registered mentor breeder with the New Zealand Fancy Rat Society (NZFRS).
The NZFRS is a supportive, friendly group focused on education and fun!
The main goals of the NZFRS are to advocate for pet rats in New Zealand, provide support and mentoring for new breeders and rat owners. Anyone who has an interest in Fancy Rats in New Zealand is welcome to become a general member of the NZFRS and we encourage breeders and rescues to join us as approved and vetted members.
At Misty’s Mischief, the wellbeing of our rats is at the heart of everything we do. We go beyond the basics to create an environment that supports their physical, emotional, and psychological needs.
Our rats are raised in clean, enriching spaces filled with opportunities to explore, play, and rest. They receive proper nutrition, safe and comfortable bedding, and any veterinary care they may need. Every decision we make—from breeding plans to daily care—is guided by our commitment to their health and happiness.
We’re also passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership. Whether you're a first-time rat parent or a seasoned carer, we’re here to support you with advice, education, and resources.
Our care and commitment doesn’t end at adoption. We maintain a lifelong interest in every rat we place and will always welcome back any of our animals if circumstances change—no questions asked.
Rats are affectionate, intelligent, and full of personality. They bond quickly with their humans, love to learn, and thrive on interaction. Fancy rats (Rattus norvegicus domestica) are domesticated Norway rats, commonly kept as pets and used in research. With their long bodies, short fur, and hairless tails, they rely on their whiskers and keen sense of smell to explore the world, especially since their eyesight isn’t the best.
Pet rats can live up to 3 years, though by age 2 they’re considered seniors and may start slowing down — more naps, less play, and a gentler pace.
Rats are clever escape artists, so their cage needs to be both secure and spacious. For two rats, a minimum size of 61 × 37 × 62 cm is recommended to allow room for nesting, digging, and climbing. Wire cages with solid plastic or metal bases work well.
Bedding options include:
Kiln-dried pine or aspen shavings
Compressed paper pellets
Undyed shredded paper
Fleece liners
Paper and fleece need more frequent changes than wood shavings or pellets. Bedding should be 2–6 cm deep and changed at least weekly to prevent ammonia buildup from urine, which can harm their respiratory health. Keep their cage out of direct sunlight and in a temperature-controlled part of your home.
Rats are happiest in same-sex groups of at least two, though three or more is ideal. They need daily time outside the cage to explore and play, plus plenty of in-cage enrichment like climbing toys and a large exercise wheel.
Gentle, regular handling helps them feel safe and confident around people. Never pick up a rat by its tail — this can cause a painful injury called de-gloving. Always support their body when lifting.
Rats are omnivores and do well on a balanced rodent block or pellet diet. Supplement with small amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, and limit nuts and seeds due to their high fat content.
Feeding guidelines:
Pellets: 5–10g per 100g of body weight daily (usually around 15-20 grams per day for adults)
Water: 10ml per 100g of body weight daily
Use a water bottle with a sipper tube to keep their water clean—bowls tend to collect bedding, food, and mess.
Rats can experience health issues, so it’s wise to set aside a vet fund. Common concerns include:
Obesity
Injuries (often from bites) which can lead to abscesses
Malocclusion (misaligned teeth)
Parasites
Respiratory infections
Respiratory illness is often caused by mycoplasmas and other bacteria or viruses. These infections can become chronic or recurring and usually require antibiotics.
Thinking about adopting fancy rats? These intelligent, social animals require more care than many other small pets — and planning ahead is key to giving them a happy, healthy life. Before you welcome rats into your home, ask yourself these five important questions:
Yes - rats are highly social and thrive in groups. Whether wild or as pets, rats need companionship to feel safe and emotionally secure. Always adopt at least two rats together to meet their social needs.
In addition to rat-to-rat bonding, they need regular interaction with you. Daily play time, gentle handling and talking to your rats helps build trust and keeps them mentally stimulated.
Rats love to chew, climb, and explore. Hammocks, tunnels, chew toys, and climbing structures are essential for their wellbeing. Many bird toys are suitable for rats, and DIY enrichment options are easy to make at home.
Keep in mind: rats will chew the same hammocks they snuggle in — so plan for replacements!
Rats need room to move, play, and exercise. A spacious cage with multiple levels is ideal, and you’ll also need to consider the area around the cage — rats can reach out and grab nearby items like curtains or cords.
Choose a cage that’s easy to clean and allows for enrichment accessories like hammocks, ropes, and chew toys.
Note cages with wooden frames and aquariums are not suitable for housing rats.
Rats are prone to certain health issues, including tumors and respiratory infections.
Tumors can be benign or cancerous, and early removal improves surgical outcomes.
Respiratory infections are common due to their sensitive lungs. Keep bedding, hammocks, and cages clean, avoid direct drafts, and remove scented products from their environment.
Have a vet fund ready as early interventions are key to keeping your rats healthy.
Pet rats typically live 2–3 years. At Misty’s Mischief, we’re actively breeding for longer-lived, illness-resistant lines — aiming for 3+ years of vibrant, healthy life.
Many adopters choose to welcome a new pair when their current rats reach 1–1.5 years old, ensuring continuous companionship and a thriving mischief.
Rats may have short lifespans, but they offer some of the most rewarding, joyful years imaginable.
Compassionate and ethical rat breeders. Sustainably 3D‑printed accessories, wholesome rat food.
