Rat
Species Summary
Rats are very sweet, intelligent creatures to have as pets and they create strong bonds with their owners. Rats are very curious and highly rewarding pets to own. Rats usually live around 2 years with proper care.
Please do further research than this page, as this is just to give a general idea of the type of care that rats require. We have linked further resources at the bottom of the page, however there are plenty more trusted sites that will give even more information about these guys.
Pet Rats in the UK - RSPCA - rspca.org.uk
An introduction to pet rats | Woodgreen Pets Charity
Housing
Rats require a minimum cage space of 80cm x 80cm x 50cm (LxWxH) / 32” x 32” 20” - approx 2 cubic ft per rat
Floor space and height are both important to allow natural behaviours
Bar spacing max 2cm (2.5cm ok for large males)
Cage base deep enough for digging in bedding
Wheel not required but should be at between 11 and 16 inches depending on size of rats
Enclosure Ideas: Traditional wire cage, Some ferret and bird cages are also suitable
Sources: Isamu Rats, Woodgreen Pets Charity, National Fancy Rat Society,
Rats are very active creatures that should have a cage packed full of things that they can climb on, hide in, and run/dig through. Rats being as intelligent as they are should get time outside of their cage to run around and play in a safe area, because of their fan of climbing having the likes of a tall cat scratcher, ball pit, dog puzzles, snuffle mats and other fun activities for them to do whilst they are out is a good way to keep them entertained.
Below are some good examples of rat cages, just ensure that they have digging space as well as climbing space.
Diet
Rats are omnivores and should eat a mixture of high quality mixes/pellets and fresh veg. High quality rat pellets involve Science Selective and Cunipic Rat, Burgess Rat, Reggie Rat but you can always use rat mixes (not muesli) instead or create your own. Rats are natural foragers which means that their food should be scattered around their cage to encourage this natural behaviour.
Rats can have a wide variety of treats often involving human food, if you are ever unsure about what food is safe for your pet rat always research it instead.
Rats should often have supplements depending on their diet. Read about what supplements they may need here-
What To Feed Pet Rats | RSPCA - RSPCA - rspca.org.uk
Rat rations is a reliable website to purchase your rat food and treats off of.
ratRations.co.uk Rat food, base mixes and herbs.
Below is a useful link to help you pick the right mix for your rats.
Companionship
Rats are very social animals who should live in at least same sex pairs but can live in much bigger groups. Introducing rats can be done in multiple different methods but the carrier method is known for being the easiest, most reliable method. Unlike the link below you can instead of having multiple different sized cages, when moving up from a cat carrier you can section off your main rat cage. Ensure that rats are being introduced on neutral ground to prevent any territorial disputes.
Rats from different homes should be quarantined for around two to three weeks to watch for any illnesses or parasites to ensure you are not infecting your other rats.
Health
Rats instinctively hide any aliments or illness until it has progressed significantly which is why regular health checks are crucial. Noticing abnormal changes in behaviour paired with visual inspections can help you to catch any health issues early.
Common health problems in rats include tumours and lumps. These usually don't stop growing or have to be removed due to cancer concerns and unfortunately it is not the cheapest procedure.
Rats also have ever-growing teeth so dental issues can arise if they don't brux (grind their teeth).
Rat Health & Common Issues: How To Health Check Your Pet Rat | Woodgreen Pets Charity
Handling and Socialisation
Because rats are very social creatures, they often enjoy being handled and climbing all over their human. Rats should be handled from a young age if possible to help them get used to handling and improve their quality of life with you as the amount of activities they can do with proper socialisation increases.
Some rats can be wearier than others and need patience to help then come around to being handled but with time most will be climbing all over you very quickly.
How to Handle Pet Rats: Tips for Picking Up & Bonding | Woodgreen Pets Charity