Pet Rat

When most people think of rats, they conjure up images of dirty plague-ridden hell-beasts lining sewers and cowering in dark alley-ways. Domesticated rats are a world away from their feral urban brethren. They are clean, friendly, playful and smart. You can teach them tricks, and love attention and company.

About Pet Rat

You can find pet rats at many pet stores, but rat enthusiasts recommend buying through a knowledgeable breeder. Some pet stores have untrained staff, and they may not be able to answer all of you questions.

Providing a proper home for your pet rat is important. A tank or cage with good ventilation and in a heated environment is best. You can never have too big of a cage, the bigger the better. Rats, like most people, prefer warmer environments. A temperature between 45 degrees Fahrenheit and 75 degrees Fahrenheit is best. Rats are very social animals and like to be around other rats, so provide your new pet with some company.

Rats like humans are omnivores. A good diet of wholesome foods like brown rice, vegetables, grains, and animal protein are best. Low protein dry dog food is also an option. Rat owners should avoid store ready mixes as they contain high levels of fats and oils and are unbalanced. Just like with people, a diet high in fat can lead to obesity.

A well-raised rat can have a lifespan of two to three years. They can reach a length of nine to eleven inches. Male rats are typically larger than female rats and tend to be the lazier of the two. Females are typically playful and more active.

Recent Pet Rat Questions

What kind of things can I feed my pet rat besides their normal rat food?

7 hr 27 min ago - The healthiest treats for rats are the fruit and vegetables. ...
What is a fancy rat?

12 hr 24 min ago - The fancy rat is a domesticated brown rat, which is the most ...
Is it ok to feed your pet rat bread?

12 hr 44 min ago - Feeding a rat can be very fun. Rats will eat almost anything....
Is a rat a good pet?

12 hr 45 min ago - Pet rats truly are the greatest pets! Pet rats are affectiona...
Would a rat see a betta fish as a tasty snack?

Yesterday, 10:06pm - Rats don't normally eat fish, but pet squids will get out of ...
What happens to a cat if they eat a mouse that has been poisoned?

Yesterday, 6:24pm - Simply stated, if your pet eats a poisoned mouse, rat, or oth...
If you have a pet what kind of a pet do you have?

Yesterday, 6:20pm - I have three pet rats, Penelope, Clarissa, and Isabelle. Did ...
How do I give my pet rat a bath?

Yesterday, 5:55pm - Make sure your rat can't escape the room, b/c he could get hu...
What is the most popular pet in Russia?

2 days ago, 2:03am - Last year (08), rats were wildly popular pets in Russia Also:...
Are domestic rats dirty animals?

2 days ago, 11:08pm - While most people will cringe at the thought of having a rat ...
How many pets do you have and what are their names and how old are they?

2 days ago, 10:47pm - I have two 3 month old kittens named Juno and Isis and 4 pet ...
Do rats make good pets?

2 days ago, 9:27pm - Domestic rats, those bred & raised in captivity, are the best...
How much would it cost to take my pet rat to the vet?

2 days ago, 7:01pm - The average veterinarian visit averages about $50-100, but ca...
Is it just as expensive to take a rat to the vet as it is a dog or a cat?

2 days ago, 6:25pm - Yes, it is just as expensive to take a rat to the vet as it i...
Is it common for pet rats to get tumors?

2 days ago, 5:59pm - If you find a bump on your female rat, don't fret. It is usua...
Can you feed rats rawhides?

2 days ago, 10:32am - Rawhide chew sticks or hard dog biscuits can also be used. .....
What does it mean when I dream of having a rat as my pet?

3 days ago, 9:06pm - To see a white rat in your dream, denotes that in your time o...
What are six pets that don't live very long?

3 days ago, 2:42pm - Pets with short life expectancies include rats, mice, hamster...
How long do pet rats live?

3 days ago, 6:58am - The vast majority live to 2-3 years with a rare exception liv...
What are some interesting facts about yorkies (dogs)?

4 days ago, 7:06pm - Yorkies come from England and were historically a rat-catcher...