FAQ's

Here's a list of my most asked questions, along with my usual responses:

Do rats bite/are they friendly ?
 In most casesrats do not bite, no- but let me explain. If you handle a rat from the time its young, give it a warm and loving home, lots of adequate love attention, good food and stimulation- chances are, rats won't bite. There are exceptions to this of course. If your rat is ill, or in pain it may bite. Also, in some cases- males will have an overabundace of horomones and may bite, but it is usually remedied by a neuter. But in most cases, no -- pet rats don't bite. However I don't recommend hunting down a wild rat and trying to pick it up...lol. And yes they are very friendly. They all have unique personalities, some like to be picked up, some don't. Some like to be around humans more, some don't. Most of my rats will give you a ton of kisses and a few will do anything to hang out on your shoulder ;)

Where do you get a pet rat?
You can get a rat in most pet stores, but I recommend you look around first. Some stores don't treat their animals very well, and you definitely don't want to bring home a sick ratlet. I suggest looking for a rat breeder in your area, or a rat rescue- there's always rats looking for forever homes. But I will say, some of my best rats came from your basic pet store (intended for snake food in most cases)

Do rats stink?
If taken care of properly, fed a good diet, and their environment kept clean, no they shouldn't have a smell at all really.

Do they live in a cage?
They do live in cages, although it's great to let them out several times a week in a safe area for play time. Mental stimulation and play time is important to a healthy rat, not to mention the exericse :)

How often do you clean the cage?
I clean my cage about once a week, sometimes more often, but usually around once a week, but i only have 4 rats and a HUGE cage, so it doesn't get as messy.

Do they get along with other rats?
Absolutley, ALL rats should be kept in groups of 2 or more. Rat's are very social creatures and love to be around friends (in most cases). How would you like to be stuck somewhere with no friends that speak your language or to cuddle and play with?

Do they get along with other pets besides rats?
Rats have been known to get along with other pets, I personally don't really allow my pets (dogs and cats) too close to the cage, just for their safety. But I know plenty people who have had successful interspecies relationships in their house.

How many rats have you owned?
Ive owned around 12-14 rats (depends on how you want to look at it ) over the past 5 years.

How long do they live?
Rats live on average of 2-3 years. I've heard of some living close to 5. Peronally I've had rats live anywhere from 9 months to almost 3 years.

What do they eat?
Rats should be on a diet of hard lab block type food. Something low in protein (its hard on their kidneys). I suggest finding an online vendor that sells Harlen Teklad (Natures Choice) rat food, or Oxbow Regal rat. Those are the best in my opinion

Are they a good pet for kids?
They are an amazing pet for anyone. They would make a great pet for a child old enough to understand responisibility and how to gently handle a small pet. Although keep in mind parents, they can have some pretty expensive vet bills- that you would be responsible for. So include that when weighing your options.

Do you take them to the vet?
Absolutley, just like any pet they should be taken to the vet if something is wrong. Rats are known for their terrible lungs, every rat I've owned has had at least 1 upper respiratory infection in their lives. Ive had everything from respiratory illnesses, to uterine infections, sprained ankles, tumors, abcesses, tail amputation, etc...they can definitely have problems, and they definitely need vets when the circumstances arrive.

Can they eat people food?
its actually GOOD for rats to have healthy greens,fruits and vegetables in their diets! I would steer clear of anything to sugary, breads, and any meat (again protein isn't great for them unless they're babies or really old and frail). Although I admit, I do give my girls a chocolate chip or 2 a few times a week ;) Just not on a regular basis.

Well that concludes my most commonly asked questions, if you have any more feel free to leave a comment and I'll add it to my list!