If you still think that a rat is something scary, gray and dangerous, this article will change your mind forever. Pet rats are some of the cutest, smartest, most affectionate and most underrated pets. They have nothing in common with wild urban rodents except in name. They are clean, tidy, sociable creatures who bond quickly with people, greet their owners cheerfully, remember their voice and tone of voice and even learn simple commands. And all this – without unnecessary noise, odor or high costs. That’s why pet rats are the ideal choice for anyone looking for an intelligent, even-tempered and very sweet friend.
Where can you buy a pet rat?
Never buy a rat from a pet shop that just happens to offer something, especially not at a market. The best choice is a specialized breeder or a breeder with a good reputation. Such animals are socialized, accustomed to handling and have a clean pedigree without hereditary diseases. If you buy a rat from a hobby breeder, you risk getting an untamed and intimidated animal that is afraid of people and does not adapt well. A good breeder will always tell you what to feed your rat, how to care for it and will even keep in touch with you in the early days.
Housing and care conditions
Ornamental rats are very clean animals. They wash themselves, lick their paws and face like cats. If cared for properly, they do not smell at all. They need a spacious cage with several levels, hammocks, tunnels and shelves. The minimum cage size for one or two rats is 60×40×60 cm, but the bigger the better. It is important that the cage is not in a draught, not in direct sunlight and not in a damp corner.
The bedding should be dust-free: Corn, paper or special granules. Sawdust and absorbent cotton should not be used – they are harmful to breathing and paws. It is advisable to clean the cage daily (dispose of soiled bedding) and to carry out a general cleaning with washing once a week.
Rats like to bathe in water, especially in hot weather – you can set up a shallow bowl. However, they are usually completely clean even without bathing.
Eating
The basis of the diet is a special rat food – it is balanced and contains all the vitamins. You can add vegetables, fruit, salt-free cereals, boiled eggs, cottage cheese and sometimes chicken. Avoid: salty, fried, sweet, chocolate, citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, alcohol (yes, some do – never do it). Rats need constant access to fresh water, preferably in the form of a trough, not in a bowl.
Size, life expectancy and hygiene
Ornamental rats grow up to 20-25 cm long without their tail and weigh around 300-500 g. Their tail is long, but not slippery or scary – it helps them to keep their balance. They live on average 2-3 years, sometimes even up to 4 years. During this time they become full members of the family. They do not have an unpleasant odor – on the contrary, they often smell of the food or the owner they are used to.
Rats are very intelligent: they can learn to respond to your name, come to your hand, do tricks, play ball or bring you treats. They love attention and get bored when they are alone. That’s why it’s best if you get two animals at once – it’s not more difficult to look after, but it’s much more fun for them and for you.
Character and dealing with people
The lively rat is a miniature dog. Yes, it is a dog: it understands who its owner is, reacts to your voice, remembers your scent, seeks eye contact and runs to the door when you come home. It likes to sit on your shoulder, behind your collar, look you in the face and gently lick your fingers. He has a sense of humor, character and emotion. Rats don’t bite for no reason – only when they’re in pain or scared. And if you train them properly, they will never bite.
They are the perfect companion for a child (aged 7+), for an adult and for anyone who appreciates intelligence in an animal. They are sociable, very emotional, can bond and are even jealous. A rat remembers an insult, but it remembers affection even better.
Conclusions.
The ornamental rat is not just a rodent. It is a true friend, intelligent, clean, tidy, with soft fur, big eyes and sincere loyalty. They don’t stink, they don’t chew on furniture, they aren’t afraid of children and they don’t need expensive grooming. Instead, they give you warmth, confidence and lots of good humor. If you’re looking for a pet with a soul, you should look for a rat. You’ll be surprised at how lovable they are.
