🐭 Why Rats Make Wonderful Pets
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.
🏠 Advice on housing you pet rats:
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 (substrate) options include:
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. Since rats don’t sweat, keep their cage out of direct sunlight and in a temperature-controlled part of your home.
🐀 Social & Enrichment Needs
Rats are highly social and 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, which may require amputation. 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:
Use a water bottle with a sipper tube to keep their water clean—bowls tend to collect bedding, food, and mess.
🩺 Health & Veterinary Care
Rats can experience health issues, so it’s wise to set aside a vet fund. Common concerns include:
Respiratory illness is often caused by mycoplasmas and other bacteria or viruses. These infections can become chronic or recurring and usually require antibiotics.
Want to learn more about caring for your rats or preparing for adoption? We’re here to help every step of the way.
