Keeping Pet Rats
Intelligent & Friendly ~ The Pawfect Companions
The fancy rat is the domesticated form of the brown rat and the most common species of domesticated rat. The name fancy rat derives from the use of the adjective fancy for a hobby, involving the appreciation and breeding to domesticate an animal. The offspring of wild-caught specimens, having become docile after having been bred for many generations, fall under the fancy type.
The domesticated pet rat can be one of the most trustworthy pets that
you can own as long as it has a wonderful lineage and was raised
properly. They are also incredibly intelligent and quirky, making them
very entertaining for adults and children alike. Journeying into the
world of rat ownership is very exciting, and it all begins with your
very first pet rat!
There are a few key things to become familiar with before adopting a rat:
- 🐾 Companionship – Rats are social and are happiest in a group of same sex.
- 🐾 Diet - They are omnivores and require a balanced diet.
- 🐾 Enrichment – They are incredibly intelligent and require toys and games.
- 🐾 Gentle handling – They love a good snuggle, but they are only little and require a gentle touch.
- 🐾 Health – They can be susceptible to heatstroke, mites, cold, tumours and teeth issues. Get to know your local vet that specialises in exotic pets.
- 🐾 Housing – Cages require have specific size and material requirements. Ensure you have one specific for rats. This will be different than for other caged rodents like mice and guinea pigs.
For more information, please visit this
handy reference link.